The BCxA proudly recognizes two outstanding professionals whose leadership, innovation, and dedication embody the highest ideals of the commissioning profession — Rachel Stuckey, Director of Engineering & Commissioning at the University of Rochester, and John Villani, PE, CCP, LEED AP, CEM, Vice President at Grumman | Butkus Associates.

Rachel Stuckey – Transforming Culture Through Collaboration 

At the University of Rochester, Rachel Stuckey has built a model commissioning program from the ground up — one that emphasizes consistency, collaboration, and total project quality. By developing new design standards, establishing a comprehensive RFP process, and integrating commissioning with facilities operations, she has redefined how her university approaches building performance.

Under her leadership, contractors now see her team as a trusted partner and resource for success — a testament to her ability to foster collaboration and respect across disciplines.

Rachel’s journey began with degrees in Physics and Mechanical Engineering from Goshen College and the University of Notre Dame, where she learned to blend technical expertise with a global perspective. That foundation shaped her path from mechanical and energy engineering to NYSERDA, where she influenced energy-efficient design practices, and now to her transformative work at the University of Rochester.

Her influence extends beyond campus. Rachel helped found the University Commissioning Cohort, a growing collaboration of 15 universities that meet quarterly to share commissioning tools, strategies, and lessons learned. Colleagues describe her as phenomenal, astute, humble, and transparent — a thought leader who shares not only resources, but also insight and context.

Through her team’s work, the University of Rochester has achieved measurable improvements — including integrating HVAC controls with classroom scheduling to save thousands annually in energy costs, and redefining commissioning scopes based on impact and performance. Yet, it’s her leadership style that stands out most: mentoring others, creating trust, and empowering her team to grow.

John Villani – Engineering Excellence Meets Practical Wisdom

This year’s second Benner Award recipient, John Villani, represents the perfect balance of technical mastery and real-world understanding. For over 17 years, he has led new construction, existing building, and ongoing commissioning efforts at his firm, advancing energy efficiency and sustainable design across millions of square feet of complex facilities.

A graduate of SUNY Maritime College, John holds a U.S. Merchant Marine 3rd Assistant Engineer license from the U.S. Coast Guard and served as a ship’s mechanic on merchant and naval vessels during the Persian Gulf War — experiences that gave him a deep, hands-on understanding of how systems really work. Before entering consulting, he worked with Johnson Controls and later managed 68 buildings and over 60 staff members in Columbia University’s Facilities Operations Department, grounding his commissioning practice in operational reality.

John’s philosophy is simple but profound: commissioning success isn’t just about reports — it’s about ensuring building operators can maintain performance long after project closeout. He has turned that belief into innovation, pioneering the use of QR codes on equipment for instant access to maintenance data, and helping to develop Trend Sumo and Energy Sumo, powerful tools for fault detection and energy visualization.

His leadership in the BCxA and the wider industry is extensive. As a Past President of the BCxA, John has served on multiple national committees, led the development of the ASHE Health Care Facility Commissioning Handbook, and contributed to the BCxA New Construction Best Practices and NIBS credentialing standards. Colleagues praise his optimism, practicality, and integrity — qualities that make him both a trusted leader and a mentor to many. One BCxA member summed it up best: “If you want to be good, be like John.”

Celebrating Excellence in Commissioning

The BCxA is honored to present the 2025 Benner Awards to Rachel Stuckey and John Villani — two professionals whose vision, persistence, and collaboration continue to shape the future of building commissioning. Their work exemplifies the purpose of our community: ensuring buildings perform as designed, while empowering the people who make that possible.

Congratulations to both recipients for their lasting impact and leadership in advancing commissioning excellence.