Sustaining HVAC Industry Through Leadership

All parties in the HVAC industry need to strengthen their ties and work together. By all parties working together we can provide more energy efficient buildings. SMACNA-BC took another important step in that direction recently by hosting a tour of the SMWIA Local 280’s Surrey B.C. training center for Ron Jarnagin, president of the American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with ASHRAE to expand our contractors’ market share. We believe ASHRAE and the industry in turn will find our contractors to be reliable and significant partners for a more efficient indoor environment,” said Bruce Sychuk, executive director of SMACNA-BC.

Ron Jarnagin addressed more than 30 students at the training centre.

“Future leadership means we must look beyond short-term focuses,” said Jarnagin. “If we were to know who will lead it is going to be from the young people here in this room.

“Developing leadership skills is just as important as your trades training and will sustain you in all your future endeavors,” said Jarnagin. “Leadership is tied to partnerships and teamwork. It requires courage and is contagious. We must either try to change a generation or else change the way we communicate with that generation.

“ASHRAE is taking a leadership role in bringing members of our industry together. To our young people: now is your time to shine.”

Sychuk presented Jarnagin with the chapter contribution to ASHRAE Research at the visit in January. SMACNA-BC, SMACNA National, and many SMACNA chapters throughout the U.S. support ASHRAE Research.