Rosa M. Leal

Title: Director, Commercial Product Strategy and Customer Experience

Company: Rheem Manufacturing, Air conditioning Division

Educational Experience: Mechanical Engineering with MBA; Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from University of Carabobo, Valencia, Venezuela; MBA in Project Management from University of Phoenix

Industry Work Experience: I started as an R&D commercial engineer, designing a wide range of commercial rooftop units. Later, I had the opportunity to work on new technologies from cooling design to controls for high-efficiency units. I have also worked on unitary controls and designed new algorithms for ultra-high efficiencies with variable-speed compressors and variable air technology to allow us to grow new market segments and national accounts.
I transferred to the product management team overseeing controls and subsequently assumed a global product manager role. When joining Rheem, I assumed a similar role, working with the water and air divisions. Since then, I have expanded my role with robust leadership of the commercial product management team and active participation in Rheem’s One Customer Experience initiative for the a/c division.

What caused you to/when did you enter the HVACR industry?

I worked in the automotive industry prior to HVACR and, out of coincidence, found great passion in the field. This inspired me to continue my engagement within the HVACR industry for 20-plus years.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of working in HVACR?

I have found the design of commercial units the most rewarding during my time in the industry. Designing new, highly efficient technologies and creating a product strategy to reach the public has made me feel like I am part of something larger than myself — contributing to a more sustainable future.

Describe the proudest moment in your career.

I have multiple moments in my career that I am most proud of. Recently Rheem won an Edison Award for our latest Renaissance 15 to 25 ton units. We were selected from a large group of innovators from multiple industries, not just HVACR. We took home silver in the Engineering and Robotics, Commercial Technology category. Additionally, I am people-oriented, so the most important thing for me as a leader is watching my team grow. I always say that I have the best commercial team.

What challenges do women face in this profession?

The HVACR industry has been traditionally male-dominated, especially in the technical roles. Even with years of experience under my belt, it is sometimes necessary to prove myself multiple times as a voice of knowledge and leadership, which is an energy expense I only see women in the industry required to perform. A personal example would be a time that I participated in an industry event to provide technical information and some of the participants disregarded the information. In contrast, Rheem has provided the opportunity for me to change the industry mindset and promote diversity

How can we increase the number of women in HVACR?

I encourage all women in the engineering profession to volunteer their time at schools and universities where they can encourage girls and young women to pursue a career in engineering. I believe showing other women that their goals are achievable inspires them to fight for a place in STEM.

What does your day-to-day job entail?

As an emerging leader at Rheem, my day-to-day job includes leading a skilled team of senior product managers, product managers, product specialists, and a technical writer for commercial air products; leading product strategy with the cross-functional team leaders; coordinating with different departments to meet business goals; and contributing as a commercial air market SME to Rheem’s Strategic Initiative for One Customer Experience.

What remains on your HVACR bucket list — what do you aspire to do that you haven’t accomplished yet?

When you work in the engineering profession, the bucket list is always endless. Technology is changing the industry every day, and I aspire to always be part of the latest and greatest innovations that redefine what it means to be sustainable and responsibly use natural resources.

What words of advice do you have for females who are considering entering the HVACR field?

Define your goals and stay focused. Math is easy, but working with people can be challenging. Be flexible and learn how to communicate with people.