William “Woody” Sutton resigned his position as the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute’s (ARI’s) president. ARI accepted the former United States Navy Rear Admiral’s resignation, effective the end of February 2007.

“On behalf of the ARI board of directors, I commend Woody for the advances ARI has made during his tenure,” said Robert Wilkins, newly elected chairman of the board of directors. “We thank him for the contributions he has made to the entire HVACR industry.”

Sutton was elected in 2001, and during his five years of service has influenced multiple advancements in the industry. He has participated in developing industry standards; expanding product certification programs; strengthening ARI’s state, federal, and international legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts; recruiting, training, and developing skilled HVACR technicians; and building cooperation among industry organizations worldwide.

“I am honored to have been able to contribute to the growth and success of ARI during my tenure,” said Sutton.

According to Wilkins, the officers and directors of ARI have not yet initiated the search for a new president. They will be meeting over the next few weeks to establish the criteria and process to be used once a search is undertaken, noted Wilkins. Until then, business will go on as usual, said Stephen Yurek, ARI COO and general counsel.

“Once a decision is made, those details will be publicly released,” said Yurek. “ARI has a hardworking professional staff that will continue to provide the highest level of service to its members and to the industry.”

Until his successor is named, Sutton has offered to be available to help the transition go smoothly. Day-to-day activities will be managed by Yurek and Mark Menzer, ARI senior vice president.

“It has been a good experience for me to lead the ARI organization and to work with the HVACR industry,” said Sutton. “I am proud of our many collective accomplishments.”

Publication date: 12/18/2006

Links