Tam Bui
Energy Utility Operations Manager
FAC | Boiler Plant Operations
Bio
Tam Bui is the Energy Utility Operations Manager and oversees AU’s energy conservation effort and ensures that they align with the university’s stated sustainability goals. He manages and supervises Central Plant Operations and collaborates with all the Facilities Management units.
Tam began working at AU in 2009 as an HVAC Supervisor and then became Assistant Chief Engineer in 2013. In those positions, he oversaw the maintenance and repair of mechanical systems. Before AU, Tam worked as a building engineer at the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation and TK services, maintaining HVAC and electrical systems.
After seventeen years of service at AU, Tam cites the sense of community and friendships he has cultivated among his coworkers, the support he has received from management, and the opportunity to learn and grow as being the most gratifying aspects of his job.
Tam earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology and Energy Management in 2019 from Ferris State University. He also received an HVAC degree from NOVA Community College in 1998. Additionally, he holds a number of professional licenses and certifications, including a First Class DC Steam Engineer License; Master HVAC DC; Master Electrician DC; NIUPLE Chief Engineer License; LEED AP O+M (operation and management) certificate for leadership in energy and environment development (energy conservation, sustainability); is recognized as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) and has a certificate in Building Owner Management Institute (BOMI) Facilities Management Administration (FMA).
Tam’s supervisor, Director of Energy and Engineering David Osborne notes, “Tam has worked continuously to better himself and to support the larger FM team and AU Community. He understands that the Central Plant’s mission is one of support and service and, just like his staff, he has answered this call countless times in good weather and bad, day, nights, weekends and holidays, stepping up whenever needed. His leadership has been essential to the efficiency and reliability/resiliency of our utility infrastructure.”
When not at work, Tam indulges in outdoor activities and is an avid hiker and backpacker. He immigrated to the United States from Vietnam in 1993 and is especially proud of the fact this his son is both an Eagle Scout and an AU Eagle. He has also been a Boy Scout leader for 13 years.
