ARLINGTON, Va. - On Jan. 23, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) will host an online forum for its members on the state of the economy, where it is headed in 2008, and how it will impact contractors nationwide. “Economic Outlook 2008” will feature a presentation from Ken Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General Contractors (AGC).

According to Simonson, nonresidential construction had a banner year across the board in 2007, while residential sank steadily lower. But the market is likely to be a lot more uneven by structure type and region in 2008, and materials costs are preparing to dance after a yearlong snooze. During Economic Outlook 2008, contractors will find out which states and metro areas are expected to keep growing, and which materials are likely to escalate. Simonson will also discuss the future of residential construction and other key economic indicators and their impact on HVACR contractors.

Economic Outlook 2008 is the first in a new series of online forums presented by ACCA for its members called “Hot Topics.” There is no fee to participate in Hot Topics, but registration is limited to members only.

The forum operates in a webinar format, and requires access to both an Internet connection and a separate phone line. Participants listen to the presentation, while watching and interacting through their Web browser. The forum is interactive and allows members to participate via real-time polling as well as asking questions of the presenter through the Web interface.

Economic Outlook 2008 will be held on Jan. 23 at 2 p.m. Eastern time and last about 90 minutes. Members must register in advance by Jan. 21 at www.acca.org/hottopics/. Questions may be addressed to ACCA’s Kelly Ercole at kelly.ercole@acca.org or 703-824-8840.

Publication date:01/14/2008