Blaufuss has more than 15 years of experience across finance, banking, and HVAC. She supports national distribution strategies and dealer networks, working closely with private equity-backed consolidators. She is the chairwoman of HARDI’s Supplier Council and a member of the HARDI Emerging Leaders program and Women in HVACR.

Lora oversees Marcone Plumbing’s growth across Washington State in military, facility, and residential plumbing markets. With more than 25 years of experience in sales, manufacturing, and government consulting, she brings a strong focus on efficiency and supply-chain optimization, HARDI’s press release said. Lora is also a long-time educator and mentor within the industry.

Both will soon begin their graduate studies in the Master of Industrial Distribution (MID) program at Texas A&M University’s College of Engineering. The scholarship, established to honor the legacy of Daniel F. Jennings, the founding director of the MID program, supports professionals who are committed to strengthening the HVACR channel through education and leadership.

“This industry thrives when we invest in its people,” said Stella Gary-Keane, vice president of talent development at HARDI. “Joni and Katie represent the kind of talent and drive that will carry HVACR into its next era. We’re proud to support their development and help accelerate their impact.”

Each recipient will receive $5,000 in scholarship funds, distributed across four semesters, to support their studies in the MID program. The program equips industry professionals with advanced skills in distribution strategy, supply-chain management, and business leadership.