From UB to the Nation's Capital: How Atsu Bedjean is Engineering the Future of Smart Buildings
A former UB student Atsu Bedjean from The Bronx excel In the Engineering field.
In the dynamic world of automation and control systems, where the line between industrial machinery and intelligent building infrastructure is blurring, a new generation of engineers is rising to the challenge. Among them is Atsu Bedjean, a former University of Buffalo (UB) college student whose rapid ascent in the engineering field is a testament to the power of hands-on experience, continuous learning, and a passion for bridging technological gaps.
Atsu’s journey began with a solid academic foundation. He earned a Master's in Engineering Management with a focus on Project Management and a Bachelor's in Computational Mathematics Engineering from Liberty University, followed by an Associate of Science in Engineering Science. This diverse educational background equipped him with the analytical rigor and strategic mindset needed to tackle complex engineering problems. But it was his drive to apply this knowledge that set him apart.
His early career took him to the high-stakes environment of GlobalFoundries in Hopewell Junction, NY, where he served as a Technician Facilities Engineer. Here, Atsu was immersed in the world of high-voltage DC battery systems and complex chemical mixing processes. He gained invaluable experience with SCADA software, schematics reading, and ISO standards, learning to react swiftly to system errors and ensure operational continuity—a foundational skill for any automation engineer.
From there, Atsu moved to New York, NY, as an Equipment Engineer with RL Controls. He dove into hardware and software system updates, testing everything from signal strength to transmission capacity using advanced tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes. This role honed his ability to engineer tailored solutions for customers and contribute to new product development, solidifying his knack for practical, results-oriented engineering.
However, it was a move to Tysons Corner, VA, as a Controls Engineer that truly sparked his specialization. Atsu began designing, installing, and maintaining systems used to monitor and control machinery. He developed a strong understanding of HMI and PLC applications, assisting with I/O lists and creating critical documentation like owner's manuals and Factory Acceptance Test sheets. This experience was the launchpad for his current role.
Today, Atsu Bedjean is an Automation Engineer based in Washington, D.C., where he is making a significant impact. He is at the forefront of integrating Building Automation Systems (BAS) and industrial systems, ensuring seamless communication from hardware to software. Atsu expertly manages platforms like Niagara N4 and Enteliewb for programming, scheduling, and real-time alarm management across diverse client facilities.
His skill set is both deep and broad. Atsu is proficient in intermediate PLC and DCS programming and is adept with a wide range of platforms, including Tridium Niagara, Delta Controls, Johnson Controls FX80, JCI Metasys, Siemens TIA Portal/Desigo, and Codesys. He leverages advanced data analytics tools like SkySpark, Grafana, and Wireshark to perform Automated Fault Detection and Diagnostics (AFDD), proactively identifying system anomalies to optimize performance and energy efficiency.
Atsu’s story is more than just a list of job titles; it's a narrative of growth and impact. He is a problem-solver who uses tools like AutoCAD Electrical and Visio to design the very systems he programs. He is a bridge—between industrial process control and building automation, between legacy systems and modern intelligence. For former UB students and aspiring engineers everywhere, Atsu Bedjean’s journey is a powerful example of how a solid education, combined with relentless curiosity and hands-on expertise, can lead to a career that is not just successful, but truly foundational to the smart, efficient world of tomorrow.