01/22/2025
The Cooling Technology Institute (CTI) will mark its 75th anniversary at its annual conference, set to take place in Memphis, Tennessee, from Feb. 2-6. This milestone event will bring together over 450 professionals from across the global cooling technology sector to explore the latest developments in industry standards, certifications and technological advancements.
Jim Baker, Galebreaker Industrial’s North and South America Representative, now serving his second term as President of CTI, highlights the significance of this year’s conference.
“For 75 years, CTI has been the cornerstone of collaboration and progress in cooling technology. This year’s event is a unique opportunity to reflect on our achievements while addressing the evolving challenges faced by the industry,” said Baker.
Founded in 1950, CTI began as a consortium of manufacturers focused on creating common standards for cooling towers. Over time, it has expanded to include owner-operators and suppliers, such as Galebreaker, and now encompasses all types of cooling equipment, from cooling towers to hybrid systems. Since the late 1950s, CTI has set industry standards and codes, ensuring quality and reliability in materials, water treatment and performance.
The conference will feature 29 technical sessions covering a wide range of topics, including mechanical vibration, sound abatement and Legionella prevention. Notable sessions include presentations on plume control and the role of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling in improving equipment performance.
“These sessions provide actionable insights for professionals grappling with issues like environmental compliance and efficiency optimization,” said Baker.
A special highlight of the conference is the Ask-the-Expert seminar, moderated by Baker. This long-standing tradition offers attendees a chance to engage with industry leaders on pressing technical and operational challenges. “The seminar epitomizes the spirit of CTI. It’s a platform for knowledge exchange, building connections that drive the industry forward.”
Galebreaker Industrial, a key player in supplying fabric-engineered solutions for air-cooled condensers, cooling towers and heat exchangers, will also be present at the conference.
Known for its advanced windscreen, winterization and debris filtration technologies, Galebreaker supports the sector in meeting environmental and performance challenges. The company has been working to innovate and adapt its products, including developing more economical and easier-to-install winterization screens that have been well-received by major manufacturers.
Reflecting on his dual role as CTI President and Galebreaker representative, Baker said, “My experience with both organizations enables me to bridge industry needs with practical solutions. Galebreaker’s innovations align seamlessly with CTI’s mission to advance the cooling sector through standards and education.”
The conference also celebrates the growing international presence of CTI, with a surge in participation from regions such as the Pacific Rim, Europe and India. “The universal adoption of CTI’s standards highlights the global importance of our work,” said Baker.
Looking ahead to the next 75 years, a key focus for Baker is on engaging younger professionals and integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and advanced modelling tools.
“One of my primary objectives is to bridge the gap between experienced professionals and the younger generation of engineers,” said Baker. “We need to bring fresh talent into the fold and ensure knowledge and expertise are passed on in a way that sets us up for long-term success. This conference is a stepping stone towards that goal.”
About Galebreaker
For more than 40 years, Galebreaker has been enabling agricultural, industrial and commercial businesses to perform at their best in any weather or climate. Its weather protection, ventilation and access solutions create ideal conditions for productivity and efficiency, benefiting both people and livestock. Galebreaker was established in 1984 by the Scudamore family. For more information, visit https://galebreaker.com.
