By: If they can do it, so can we | New Hudson Valley

If they can do it, so can we | New Hudson Valley — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:08:35 +0000

[...] of a project that stretches my limits and is actually good for people and the planet; (2) like them, I am both giddy and geeky when I talk about our Passive House; (3) I need a boost of their energy [...]

By: Charlie Robinson, '82

Charlie Robinson, '82 — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 13:22:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of visiting Middlebury as the Solar Decathletes began building the Self Reliance home back in April 2010. I was fortnuate to be contacted early on by Kris Williams, the Fund Raising Lead. I am a General Manager at Huber Engineered Woods. We dontated ZIP System structural sheathing and AdanTech subflooring for the build. ZIP System panels combined with our seam sealing tape is designed for energy efficient homes because it provides both an air and moisture barrier all in one product. I was so impressed with how passionate, mature, articulate and well organized Team Self Reliance was in their endeavor. In addition to Kris, I met Addison Godine (project

manager), Alex Jopek (construction lead), Katie Romanov (communication & outreach lead), Melake Getabecha and faculty leaders Andrea Kerz-Murray and Ashar Nelson to name a few. They all managed this initiative like a well run business. They integrating functional experts into a master work plan so all deadlines were met and goals were achieved. I had to remind myself they were liberal art majors and not engineers, building scientists or architects, even though they sounded like them. Note these were common majors for students from other solar decathlon teams. What impressed me most was visiting the Self Reliance home at the Washington Mall. The home was gorgeous! I left convinced that affordable, sustainable homes can be built by students (albeit extraordinary ones). Congratulations Team Self Reliance! One small step for Middlebury College, one giant step for liberal arts eduction!

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By: Matthew Kimble

Matthew Kimble — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:08:27 +0000

The Kimble family has been following your every move with interest–from planning to contruction to the big haul south. Thanks for keeping us up to date with the stories and videos.

Comments on: Scenes from VIP Day

By: If they can do it, so can we | New Hudson Valley

By: Charlie Robinson, '82

By: Matthew Kimble