Christopher Laughman

Bio

Christopher Laughman is a senior leader in energy and sustainability strategy with over 20 years of experience advancing performance across real estate portfolios. His work bridges environmental policy, building operations, and human behavior—helping large organizations reduce the impact of carbon emissions through practical, scalable solutions.

Education

Chris earned his B.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Missouri. He holds an MBA in Business Sustainability from Marylhurst University and an M.A. in Management and Leadership from Webster University. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Administration at the University of Denver, where his research focuses on the intersection of real estate, psychology, and marketing in multifamily housing.

Professional Background

Chris is the Senior Director of Energy and Sustainability at Greystar, where he leads U.S.-based initiatives to meet regulatory requirements, reduce energy use and carbon impact, and support ESG goals across the most extensive multi-family real estate portfolio in the world. His team supports data analysis, opportunity identification, compliance strategies, and resident engagement programs that drive measurable environmental outcomes. Before joining Greystar, Chris led the development of sustainability programs for several organizations, including Greybar, EdR, and Conservice. He also managed facility operations in both the private and public sectors, gaining firsthand experience in the operational realities that shape energy performance. Chris holds several industry credentials, including LEED AP in Operations & Maintenance and Fitwel Ambassador.

Motivation for Teaching

Chris is passionate about equipping students with tools that go beyond compliance and technology, focusing instead on how people and behavior shape environmental outcomes. His work with community-based social marketing has reinforced the importance of behavioral insights in driving meaningful and lasting change. Teaching allows him to share these approaches and help students build a more holistic view of sustainability.

Helping Students Be Successful

Chris brings real-world experience into the classroom through current case studies, regulatory scenarios, and hands-on tools from his work in energy and sustainability. He encourages dialogue, critical thinking, and practical application, and is always available for guidance, mentoring, and support as students pursue careers in sustainability.