tekWorx co-founder Burt Rishel was one of those rare individuals whose influence touched countless lives and transformed entire industries. He made his mark in design, engineering, and writing while inspiring those around him with his exceptional intelligence, compassionate heart, and unwavering dedication.
A gifted engineer and a captain of the Army Air Corps, Burt Rishel’s first major achievement was as a principal designer for the CG-10A glider, which became the first Assault Cargo aircraft. This early success hinted at the remarkable career that would follow. However, it was in the field of pumping systems that Burt Rishel truly found his professional calling, earning him the affectionate and well-deserved nickname “Professor Pump.”
Burt Rishel’s unparalleled expertise in pumping systems laid the foundation for revolutionary advancements in chiller plant optimization. His deep understanding of pump dynamics and system interactions was instrumental in the founding of Systecon, which quickly became an industry leader. In 2000, Burt Rishel brought this wealth of knowledge to tekWorx, where it became the cornerstone of our innovative approach to chiller plant optimization. His passion for designing pumping systems and helping companies operate more efficiently was evident in every project he undertook. Burt Rishel’s work took him across the country, serving as a consultant for the chilled water systems at prestigious locations such as the Denver International Airport, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the National Institutes of Health.
A prolific writer of technical articles, Burt Rishel also authored two influential books that continue to shape the industry today. His “HVAC Pump Handbook” is widely regarded as the definitive guide for professionals working with pumps in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This comprehensive work covers everything from pump selection and application to optimization of performance and energy efficiency in building systems. The handbook delves deep into the intricacies of pump curves, system curves, and their intersection points, providing readers with a thorough understanding of how to match pumps to system requirements. Rishel’s expertise shines through in his detailed explanations of variable speed pumping, a technology he championed for its energy-saving potential. The book also addresses critical issues such as pump maintenance, troubleshooting, and life cycle cost analysis, making it an indispensable resource for both novice and experienced HVAC professionals.
Similarly, Burt Rishel’s book “Water Pumps and Pumping Systems” provides an exhaustive overview of water pumps and their applications across various industries, serving as an invaluable resource for engineers, facility managers, and technicians. This comprehensive tome goes beyond the basics, exploring advanced topics such as pump hydraulics, cavitation, and the intricacies of parallel and series pump operations. Burt’s practical approach is evident in the book’s extensive coverage of pump selection criteria, installation best practices, and system design considerations. The book also delves into emerging technologies and trends in the pumping industry, including the application of smart pumps and the integration of pumping systems with building automation.
What sets Rishel’s books apart is not just their technical depth, but also their accessibility. He had a remarkable ability to explain complex concepts in a clear, concise manner, making his works valuable to a wide range of readers, from students to seasoned professionals. Both books are peppered with real-world examples and case studies, drawing from his vast experience in the field. These practical insights help readers bridge the gap between theory and application, a hallmark of the Burt Rishel teaching style. Even years after their publication, these books remain go-to references in the industry, a testament to Burt’s enduring impact on the field of pump technology and system optimization.
Burt’s impact extended far beyond his technical expertise. As tekWorx President Mike Flaherty puts it, “We are indebted to our co-founder, friend, and inspiration. Burt’s knowledge made us a pioneer in the field. His mentorship molded us. His customer-first focus motivated us.”
Burt Rishel’s legacy is not just in the systems he designed or the books he wrote, but in the countless professionals he inspired and mentored throughout his career. His innovative approaches to pumping systems and energy efficiency continue to influence industry practices today, years after his passing in August 2013.
At tekWorx, we strive every day to honor Burt Rishel’s memory by upholding the high standards of excellence, innovation, and customer focus that he exemplified throughout his remarkable career.
