2025 40 Under 40: Danial Laiq, 30

Hydronics Product Specialist, Cleaver-Brooks; MS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah

Laiq is passionate about heat transfer products that play a vital role in the energy-water nexus, recognizing their impact on sustainability and efficiency in modern infrastructure. His career began in supercritical power plants in Pakistan and China, where he gained firsthand experience in boiler operations. Inspired by this experience, Laiq pursued a master’s degree in thermal science, with his thesis focusing on adsorption-based atmospheric water harvesting systems, which contribute to sustainable solutions for global water scarcity. This academic foundation led him to a career in boiler systems at Cleaver-Brooks, where he applies his technical expertise to advance boiler applications. As a hydronic specialist, Laiq works closely with engineers, architects, contractors and manufacturer representatives to design and implement efficient heating solutions. Laiq is also recognized for his contributions to the tankless water heater industry, particularly in testing innovative tankless water heaters and advanced heat pumps. His commitment to professional development is reflected in his activities with ASHRAE technical committees on heat transfer and fuels and combustion. Laiq’s qualities as a forward-thinking and compassionate leader are seen through his human-centric approach to work and his dedication to sustainability and community. Laiq helped design Pakistan’s first electric Formula car, representing his college team in a competition in Nebraska. His leadership and dedication are also seen through his participation in local nonprofits based in Wisconsin, where he mentors youth volunteers, coordinates blood drives and manages the website. Outside of work and volunteering, Laiq plays in local badminton tournaments and enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors. His personal goal is to visit all the National Parks.