James began his career in building systems in 1986 and founded Petersen Engineering, Inc. in 1992. James has always had a passion for energy efficiency and is an industry leader in advancing sustainability, occupant health and comfort, resiliency, simplicity and affordable solutions in the built environment.
By long ago adopting a wholistic philosophy for the design of buildings James leads and collaborates with project teams to optimize the integration of MEP/FP systems with architecture, sites, building enclosures and building science fundamentals. The results are durable, simple and affordable buildings that are leading the way towards a zero-carbon future.
James is a licensed Professional Engineer in seven states (MA, NH, CT, NY, NJ, ME, VT) and DC. He received a BS Mechanical Engineering and a BA Philosophy from the University of New Hampshire.
James is a leader in NESEA (Northeast Sustainable Energy Association) having served as Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Co-Chairperson of the Boston BuildingEnergy Conference and is a Lifetime Member, and is proud to be a member and corporate sponsor of the Passive House Massachusetts Chapter.