The "Tomorrow Project" is a joint contractor/manufacturer initiative that will identify strategic, long-range issues and concerns that will have a high impact on business and technology; determine the best approach to resolving those issues that are the most pressing; and position the HVACR industry to develop and implement business plans in response to emerging marketplace issues.

"Contractors are busy small business owners, engaged in meeting payroll and growth goals," said Paul T. Stalknecht, president and CEO of ACCA. "All too often that means they are forced to react instinctively to unanticipated changes in the marketplace and operating environment. The Tomorrow Project may be the most important program ever undertaken by ACCA on behalf of our members — because its goal is to help contractors act proactively to meet the needs of our coming marketplace. There's a big difference between being surprised by an innovative technology or new business model, and preparing to meet it head-on."

To meet the project's goals, a Contractor/Manufacturer Joint Committee has been established. Representing the contracting community on the committee are: Brian Harvey, H&C, Laurel, Md.; Greg Leisgang, JonLe Heating & Cooling, Cincinnati; Bill Moss, M&H, Memphis, Tenn.; Larry Taylor, AirRite, Fort Worth, Texas; Dan Thayer, Thayer Corporation, Asburn, Mass.; Bob Wasniewski, Roberts Environmental, Tinley Park, Ill.; and Kevin Whalen, Q-Dot, Pittsburgh.

Representing the manufacturing sector on the committee are: Dick Lord, Carrier Corporation; Karl Mutchnik, Trane; Gary Nettinger, Mitsubishi Electronics; Ed Raniszeski, Rheem Manufacturing; Bede Wellford, Airxchange; Doug Young, Lennox International; and Jim Walters, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI).

Strategic issues in all areas of interest to the HVACR industry will be addressed, including industry image; marketplace interactions; labor and human relations; public policy; new product technologies and applications; codes and regulations; training, education, and certification; environmental issues; research needs; and industry cooperation.

For more information on the Tomorrow Project, contact Glenn Hourahan at 703-824-8865 or glenn.hourahan@acca.org.

Publication date: 04/14/2003