Air Comfort University was organized primarily for salespersons and project managers and covers a range of topics, including systems and controls, piping design, ventilation design, and estimating.

The company saw many reasons to reinstitute the original program. For those with more experience in the industry, the courses are designed to freshen old skills and provide a deeper look into more complex issues. There are also classes that give less experienced individuals a basic understanding of the ABCs of comfort.

In addition, the contractor was recently certified by the Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA) as an MSCA STAR contractor. Air Comfort is one of only 58 contractors countrywide to be certified.

In order to become certified, contractors must meet a series of eight requirements, including the following: an MSCA member in good standing, proven track record in the HVACR industry, minimum of 25 percent of workforce UA Star certified, documented company service safety and health programs and an outstanding safety record, ongoing training for all employees, employees attend at least one MSCA or MCAA national or local program yearly, established truck inventory control system and major tool inventory program, photo ID cards to be worn by field personnel, and the highest levels of customer service.

Lastly, Air Comfort was recently awarded a Subcontractor Excellence Award from Gilbane Building Co. during its Midwest Region Contractor Awards Luncheon. The company was honored with an Award of Excellence for outstanding performance on a project for SBC in Harvey, Ill.

Out of the more than 200 contractors working for Gilbane last year only eight were recognized with awards. According to Gilbane representative, Pat Conlon, Air Comfort was chosen because it met and exceeded expectations in four critical areas: on schedule, under budget, safety and quality.

Gilbane Co. is a leading general builder of commercial, institutional, and government facilities in the United States.

Founded in 1935, Air Comfort began as an engineering company and equipment distributor for Dr. Willis H. Carrier's air conditioning products. The company now employs more than 100 people as a full-service HVAC contractor specializing in the design and installation of new equipment, retrofits of existing systems, comprehensive maintenance programs, and emergency service.

For more information, visit www.aircomfort.com.

Publication date: 06/12/2006