2025 Top Women in HVAC: Bhavana Depuru Guru
Bhavana Depuru Guru
How and when did you enter the HVACR industry?
I began my journey with Trane, formerly Ingersoll Rand, in 2017, immediately after completing my graduate studies. With an academic foundation rooted in engineering and sustainability, I was naturally drawn to organizations that champion both environmental responsibility and cutting-edge innovation. Trane offered the perfect blend of these values, driving sustainable practices while delivering state-of-the-art engineering solutions. Joining the company felt like stepping into the ideal environment to grow, contribute meaningfully, and shape my career around creating a more sustainable future.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of working in HVACR?
For me, the most rewarding part of working in HVACR is seeing the real-world impact of the systems we design. Every initiative, big or small, moves the needle on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. I also value the chance to collaborate with diverse teams, tackle complex challenges, and mentor engineers along the way. Knowing that our work makes buildings smarter, operations more efficient, and communities healthier gives me a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Describe the proudest moment in your career.
Every project I design or develop contributes to Trane Technologies’ Gigaton Challenge — our bold commitment to reducing 1 gigaton (1 billion metric tons) of CO2 emissions from customers’ carbon footprints by 2030. Knowing that my work directly supports a mission to create a carbon-neutral world fills me with immense pride. Each innovation I deliver is not just a technical solution; it’s a step toward a more sustainable future. This purpose fuels my creativity, drives my determination, and makes every achievement deeply meaningful.
How can we increase the number of women in HVACR?
Actively encouraging participation in Flagship HVACR events, such as the globally respected ASHRAE conferences, can help create awareness about the industry’s growth and the vital role women can play in building a more sustainable future. In addition, increasing mentorship opportunities, showcasing female role models in leadership and technical roles, and collaborating with universities and technical institutes to promote HVACR as a rewarding career path can make a significant difference.
What remains on your HVACR bucket list — what do you aspire to do that you haven’t accomplished yet?
I aspire to lead projects focused on mission-critical customers, including the medical and healthcare sector, where I can amplify the reach of innovative, low-carbon HVACR solutions, driving broader adoption in mission-critical sectors and ensuring these systems deliver maximum benefit to the communities that rely on them.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact by creating HVACR systems that are smarter, greener, and more reliable, while supporting essential services like health care and inspiring others to join this critical mission.
What advice do you have for women who are considering entering the HVACR field?
My advice is to build a strong foundation of technical knowledge and trust your skills. HVACR is full of opportunities to make a real difference in sustainability and technology, so don’t hesitate to share your ideas or try new approaches. Focus on gaining confidence through hands-on experience, stay curious, and remember that your unique perspective can open doors and inspire others in the field.
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