RESTON, Va. - Thomas F. Warner, president of Utility Service Express LLC, was selected the 2007 Trane HVAC Contractor of the Year. The announcement was made at the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association’s (PHCC’s) annual convention in Anaheim, Calif.

Warner has more than 40 years of experience in the HVAC-plumbing industry, and as a leader he believes in training and education. “Believing in what we do and understanding customers, communicating with employees, and effective control systems all together create a unique company culture,” he said. He also developed an Internet sales system for HVAC quotes for customers.

Warner has been a member of the Virginia State PHCC since 2005, currently serving as vice president (2006-07). He has been a PHCC Northern Virginia Chapter board member since 2003. In 1986, he was named Outstanding Plumbing Contractor for PHCC.

Candidates for the Trane award are evaluated by a committee of PHCC members who judge accomplishments in six areas: professionalism, merchandising, management, innovative HVAC practices, trade involvement, and community service. Warner received a check for $2,500 and a plaque at the awards ceremony.

The first runner-up for HVAC Contractor of the Year went to Lorie Jones Gore, of Gundlach Plumbing & Heating, Richmond. She was awarded a check for $500 and a plaque.

Publication date: 01/14/2008