Member Spotlight: Jon Gower
The Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) dives inside the career of Jon Gower, Regional Consultant for The Gower Group in Little Elm, TX. In this feature interview, learn what made him become an ABAA member, what led him on his career path, and get his perspective on the future of the air barrier industry.
Jon Gower, RWC, REWO, RRO
Mr. Gower is a building envelope specialist with experience in estimating, inspecting, leak detection, and repair/maintenance of various building envelope systems on commercial and institutional buildings. He is a member of the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), the National Association of Commercial Building Inspectors & Thermographers (NACBI), and the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI). His professional registrations currently include: Registered Waterproofing Consultant (RWC), Registered Roof Observer (RRO), Registered Exterior Wall Observer (REWO), Certified EIFS Inspector (CEI), Level 1 Thermographer, and an ABAA Licensed Field Auditor.
Name: Jon Gower
Title: Regional Consultant
Firm: The Gower Group
City: Little Elm, TX
What was the path to your career — how and why did you pursue a profession as a Building Envelope Consultant?
A: I started out in High School and assisted my father during his role as a general contractor. I completed my degree in Construction Science and started working for a waterproofing/moisture protection subcontractor, which was ultimately the foundation of my involvement in the industry.
Is there anything that you believe everyone in this industry should be working towards?
A: Informing others on the importance of building envelope assemblies and the cost ramifications if not addressed accordingly.
What role have peers, mentors, or advisors played in your career?
A: Each has played a significant role in my career development
What led you to become an ABAA member?
A: I wanted to expand my knowledge and help others achieve their desired end result in building performance.
Are you involved in any ABAA committees? Do you have any ABAA certifications?
A: I am a licensed QAP Field Auditor and currently pursuing my Certified Air Barrier Specialist (CABS) certification.
How long have you been in the industry?
A: 17 years.
What major changes have you seen?
A: Since I first started in the industry, I’ve seen major changes pertaining to the weather resistant/water resistive barriers that are being incorporated into the cavity wall assembly; whether it’s self-adhered, mechanically attached, fluid-applied, or a factory-bonded membrane to sheathing.
What traits or skills do you think are necessary to be able to succeed in your industry?
A: Being able to adjust and adapt to change.
Do you have any advice for anyone starting out in your field?
A: Understanding the 90%/1% principle and where/how various elements come together or end.
What do you think the industry will look like in five or ten year’s time?
A: I imagine there will be an increase of QAP’s and field quality control testing being adopted in project specifications.