The milestone came a lot earlier than the group expected.

“Our original goal for 1998 was to be at 50 companies,” said EAI president Jeff Wilmink. “We are currently at about 115 members.”

The group of contractors has existed for over a year and was created to give independent hvacr companies many of the same benefits enjoyed by consolidated contractors, such as buying clout and extended professional services.

“A year ago it was pretty challenging to sit at a negotiation table. We had a handful of great companies and a vision that we would continually grow stronger,” said Wilmink. “Believe me, it’s a lot more fun to go into a negotiation meeting now.”

For more information, call EAI at 513-412-7000.