Carrier Corp.’s Residential and Light Commercial Systems business has honored contractors from Texas and Georgia with its Dealer Hall of Fame Award. The awards were presented during the Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer (FAD) Awards celebration held recently in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Bill Joplin of Bill Joplin’s Compressor Services Inc., McKinney, Texas, and Earl Smith of E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning, Marietta, Ga., were cited for “their legacies of service and integrity in action,” the company said. Launched in 2007, the Carrier Dealer Hall of Fame Award honors FADs who exemplify the vision of Carrier’s founder, Willis Carrier, over a lifetime of service.

“While all FADs are expected to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to quality and service, these individuals have been consistent and unwavering in their leadership and in giving back to their employees, the industry, the community, and their customers throughout their careers,” said Karie Johnson, manager of dealer programs and promotions, Carrier North America Residential Systems.

Joplin’s Compressor Services has been a Carrier dealer since 1981. The company has more than 100 employees, including many technicians who have an average tenure of five years. The company also recognized Joplin for his spirit of giving. His company's annual People Serving People program has provided several $25,000 grants that have funded school revitalization, transportation, clothing and therapeutic devices for youth, handicapped, and the homeless.

An advocate for education, Joplin has established a scholarship fund for McKinney graduates whose parents did not obtain a college degree.

Smith began his career in the HVAC industry more than a half-century ago before founding E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning with his wife Linda in 1962. Today, the company has grown to 60 employees.

In 1965, Smith spearheaded the first local HVAC code. In 1980 he founded the Conditioned Air Association of Georgia, a coalition that continues to define and refine HVAC codes while advancing the professionalism and education of technicians. He served as the HVAC representative on the Georgia Electrification Council from 1990 to 2000, and currently represents the industry on the Georgia State Board of Adult Education.

Beyond industry leadership, Smith’s humanitarian support includes serving as president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cobb County and the Cobb Lions Club. He has also been chairman of the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum and Exhibit Hall Authority.

Publication date: 07/07/2008