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HVAC is a fantastic industry. The people are second to none, the technology is constantly changing and becoming more advanced, and there are limitless opportunities.

The NEWS has elected to create a “Legends of the HVACR Industry” Award. This will be a bit like a hall of fame for the industry. And since there is no time like the present, we are beginning this year.

I attended my fair share of trade shows, conferences, and seminars during my seven years in hospitality. And, I’ll admit, I did not go into my first one with open arms. I thought it was stupid and a waste of money, until I got there, that is. I was impressed and happy to admit I was wrong. But, all my trade show, conference, and seminar experience combined is nothing compared to the AHR Expo.

Americans should be allowed to choose the products they’d like regardless how efficient or inefficient they are. That’s how capitalism works, right? Shouldn’t consumers do their own research rather than rely on the government to tell them what to buy?

Online purchasing is where our economy is going, and HVAC has to change with the times. And, while this is most likely factual, let us investigate all the ramifications before we merge too quickly onto the information superhighway.

Every July, The NEWS highlights the absolute best HVAC equipment available through the DDA contest. What sets this contest apart is that the winners are chosen by a panel of independent HVACR contractors based on their interactions with the equipment. Gold, silver, and bronze DDA honors are awarded in 13 categories ranging from ventilation products to commercial controls and everything between.

The AHR Expo is the biggest event of the year for the HVACR industry. It’s a time when a large group of the industry gets under one roof and learns about new products and trends.

Conley said when he gets out in the field, he sees a lot of dysfunctional applications. In fact, he believes, more often than not, condensate traps are put in incorrectly.

It’s no secret the HVACR industry is facing a labor shortage — we’ve covered the topic quite a bit at The NEWS. However, offering good benefits packages can help companies attract and retain employees in this competitive industry. In fact, nearly four in five American workers would prefer new or additional benefits over a pay increase, according to a survey conducted by online job recruiter Glassdoor in partnership with Harris Poll.

While women may not be your top-of-the-mind choice when recruiting new technicians, I challenge you to broaden your horizons this year.