SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
(Preliminary Schedule Subject to Change)
Monday, March 24, 2025 | Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | Wednesday, March 26, 2025 | Thursday, March 27, 2025
Monday, March 24, 2025
This session teaches you the rules of profit. Make sure you are obeying them, and you should have a profitable business. This session gives you the rules including: how to price profitably; why you should ignore gross margin and net margins – why dollars are better; how NOT to grow out of business; and why maintenance programs are critical to profitability – and how to make sure yours is thriving. You’ll leave with ideas and processes you can implement immediately when you return home.
You must register in advance to attend this session. Only 30 seats available.
Profit & Wealth Guru Ruth King is a nationally recognized home/business services consultant, author, and HVAC license holder. She is Founder of FinanciallyFit.business, Channel Manager for HVACChannel.tv, and the President of Business Ventures Corporation.
For the past 30+ years Ruth has been instrumental in helping contractors grow profitably through consulting, speaking, training, books, and operations manuals.
She is especially proud of two partners who started working with her when they had $750,000 in revenues. Sixteen years later the company reached $10 million in sales and sold for $9 million in cash.
Her latest book, 101 Dumb Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them, was published in September 2023 and reached #1 on that day. This book follows five other #1 and award-winning books.
She will help you build a thriving, profitable business.
Add On Session Featuring Ruth King It’s not enough to only build a profitable business. Business owners must build wealth too…otherwise they risk going out of business even though they are profitable because they don’t have the cash and customer base to survive hard times. This session gives attendees the Rules of Wealth so they can build profits and wealth.
You must register in advance to attend this session. Only 30 seats available.
Profit & Wealth Guru Ruth King is a nationally recognized home/business services consultant, author, and HVAC license holder. She is Founder of FinanciallyFit.business, Channel Manager for HVACChannel.tv, and the President of Business Ventures Corporation.
For the past 30+ years Ruth has been instrumental in helping contractors grow profitably through consulting, speaking, training, books, and operations manuals.
She is especially proud of two partners who started working with her when they had $750,000 in revenues. Sixteen years later the company reached $10 million in sales and sold for $9 million in cash.
Her latest book, 101 Dumb Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them, was published in September 2023 and reached #1 on that day. This book follows five other #1 and award-winning books.
She will help you build a thriving, profitable business.
Mainstage
Join us for the grand kick-off of ACCA 2025! Witness the exciting unveiling of our 2025 awardees and celebrate their achievements in unforgettable style.
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Welcome ACCA 2025 attendees at the orientation session. Aid these attendees in networking with other contractors, while also promoting your brand directly to them. Continental Breakfast included.
Mainstage
Event info coming soon!
Tommy Mello is the founder of A1 Garage, a home service business that’s about to cross the $220M mark in revenue with over 700 employees in 20 states.
In addition to being the author of the best-selling books “Home Service Millionaire” and “Elevate: Build a Business Where Everybody Wins,” Tommy is published in top publications like Forbes, The Huffington Post, Entrepreneur, and Inc. Magazine.
Tommy is the host of the acclaimed Home Service Expert podcast (top 10 show on Apple’s business category in America), where world-class experts like Michael Gerber, Ken Goodrich, Jay Abraham, Joe Polish, and Gino Wickman were featured. He is also the host of the Freedom Event, one of the biggest conferences in the home service industry.
Tommy was named top entrepreneur in Arizona under the age of 35 and enjoys focusing on his health and fitness to be the best version of himself!
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Discover strategies to achieve ambitious business growth while maintaining your company’s culture, quality and reputation. Join Chris Hoffmann as he dives into leadership development, the significance of defining a compelling purpose and values, and actionable methods for fostering a highly engaged team.
Chris Hoffmann is the CEO at Hoffmann Brothers, a family-owned HVAC, plumbing & electrical business that has scaled from $10 million to over $100 million in 7 years. Chris and his team are highly focused on work surrounding people, talent development, culture, and the scaling process. “As a purpose-driven business supported by permanent family capital, Hoffmann Brothers is uniquely positioned to drive wins for team members, customers, and shareholders for generations to come.” – Chris Hoffman, Hoffman Brothers
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
As the HVACR industry evolves, HFC refrigerants are being phased down in favor of new, lower-GWP refrigerants. On January 1, 2025 a ban on the manufacture of R-410A will go into effect, with an installation ban starting January 1, 2026. Join us for a panel discussion which will dive into the latest information on the EPA phase down of HFC refrigerants and the market for A2L products.
David Bixby is ACCA’s manager of codes & standards. He has over 30 years experience in the HVACR industry working for equipment OEM’s and trade associations, including 14 years with the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (now known as AHRI), participating in codes, standards and regulatory activities. Now providing support for ACCA’s Codes Subcommittee and model code activities of interest to ACCA’s goals, including ICC, IAPMO and NFPA code groups. In addition, David now leads ACCA’s ANSI standards activities including secretary for the ACCA Standards Task Team.
Chris Forth is a 30+ year HVACR industry veteran, who has worked in engineering, product management, and most recently in the regulatory and codes space as the Vice President of Regulatory, Codes & Environmental Affairs for the Ducted Systems division of Johnson Controls. Chris is heavily involved in industry codes and standards development, as well as industry advocacy efforts to facilitate the safe transition to low-GWP refrigerants at the state, federal and international levels.
Don Gillis is a technical trainer at Chemours. Prior to his work with Chemours, he was a training specialist and HVACR instructor for Copeland. Don has more than 30 years of experience in the industry, having been an installer, sales and service manager, and service technician.
Kate Houghton is the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing with Hudson Technologies. Kate joined Hudson Technologies in November 2014 as Director of Marketing. She has over 25 years of marketing experience within industrial manufacturing companies.
John Maiorana is the Product Support Manager for Forane Refrigerants. Over the last 21 years John has held various roles in research, sales and technical support regarding fluorocarbon gases as refrigerants and fire suppression fluids. First with the transition from CFC’s to HFC’s and now, the transition from HFC’s to lower GWP technology. John holds a BA degree from Temple University and a MS degree from University of Pennsylvania.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Join Bryan Dodge as he reveals the essential keys to becoming a great leader through effective communication. Learn practical strategies to enhance your memory retention and recall, ensuring you retain crucial information and communicate effectively. Discover the art of becoming a better listener, gaining insights into techniques that foster understanding and collaboration. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your leadership skills and transform your communication approach.
Bryan Dodge’s 30 plus years in the business development and consulting industry has enabled him to become one of the most sought-after commodities in the country! His company, Dodge Development Inc., has a proven track record of helping businesses and associations overcome adversity, build their organizations and achieve their goals. Not only is Bryan an expert at helping businesses identify problem areas, but he is also especially proficient in equipping them with all the tools they need to grow and prosper. Bryan’s professional history started with a company he created in the early 90’s called “The Results Educational Network”. It included alliances with some of the nation’s top speakers and trainers including Zig Ziglar, Brian Tracy, Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins. The mission was to strengthen every aspect of what businesses were made of, including the most important asset, its people!
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
In this session, the panelists will highlight Manual S® procedures for cold climate heat pumps and discuss additional important tradeoffs, that Manual S® is silent on, that should be considered when selecting equipment. They will also provide practical recommendations for how these additional factors can be incorporated into your processes, highlight helpful resources, provide an overview of the calculations, data sources and tools that you can use to facilitate these calculations quickly and accurately. They will provide real-world examples of where these tradeoffs matter and how different pieces of equipment lead to significantly different outcomes for homeowners and the contractor who installed them. In the latter half of this session, the panelists will put the current wave of “home electrification” in context as a continuation of a trend that has been going on for more than a century.
Ed Smith holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northeastern and a BA in Philosophy from Colby College. He is also Design for Six Sigma certified.
Alex Meaney started his career at Wrightsoft, serving as their Lead Trainer. He has taught over 700 classes to over 10,000 practitioners. He is now the Lead Designer and Owner of Mean HVAC Consulting & Design.
Bill Spohn is President, CEO and co-owner of TruTechTools.com, an award-winning reseller of tools and test instruments. He holds a BS & MS in Mechanical Engineering and is a Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania. Over the last 36 years, Bill has built his career on creating, designing, and marketing a wide array of test and measurement products that work for technicians in the field.
Bill is all about Science – Comfort, health, and energy efficiency. He has worked on BPI, RESNET, GAMA, AHRI, OMA, RSES, NATE, and ACCA Technical Committees and holds six US patents in instrumentation design. He regularly consults, teaches, and writes on product applications in HVACR, building science, healthy homes, Indoor Air Quality, and weatherization.
Bill is smart, a great listener, and speaks passionately and in a language we can all understand. He shares his knowledge and experiences in the two podcasts he hosts: TruTech Tools® Building HVAC Science and RESNET® RESTalk. Bill is the Treasurer of the Building Performance Association (BPA), expert advisor to the Electrification start-up www.GetDuckling.com, and advisor to the Solar United Neighbors of Pennsylvania (SUN-PA).
He and his wife have built and live in a modular, net-zero, high-performance home near Pittsburgh, PA. Keep tabs on the details at www.SpohnHome.com.
Bamboo
In this session, we will delve into the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in HVACR marketing strategies. From website design optimization to enhancing SEO and content marketing, AI is revolutionizing how HVACR businesses engage with their audience, beat the competition, and drive sales. Join AJ Sonnick in exploring practical insights and actionable steps to integrate AI seamlessly into your marketing approach. Learn how to leverage AI to elevate your website’s performance and stay ahead in the digital landscape of HVACR marketing.
Key Points:
- Crafting Compelling Calls to Action (CTAs): A good CTA will drive conversions and engagement effectively. Understand how a CTA is critical to your website and walk out with a new CTA to use in your marketing.
- AI-Powered SEO Strategies: Discover the role of AI in optimizing HVACR-specific keywords, generating relevant content ideas, and improving search engine rankings for increased visibility and traffic.
- Next-Gen Website Design: Explore AI-driven website design tools and techniques that enhance user experience, boost lead generation, and differentiate your HVACR business in a competitive market.
- Personalization and Customer Insights: Learn how AI algorithms analyze customer data to deliver personalized experiences, anticipate client needs, and build long-term relationships, fostering loyalty and repeat business.
Attendees will be equipped with practical knowledge and actionable insights to harness the power of AI in transforming their HVACR marketing efforts, driving business growth, and staying ahead of the competition.
AJ Sonnick is the owner of digital marketing agency ONE18MEDIA, which he founded in 2014 – a Long Island, NY based company. AJ’s career started in video production and IT — producing, managing and directing alongside a team. After working in marketing for a bit for a large mechanical contractor in NYC, he took those skills and started ONE18MEDIA in order to help bring success to others. AJ and his team are invested in their client’s success by providing innovative digital marketing strategies, powered by data and driven by smart ideas. Helping business owners grow is something AJ is passionate about. Bringing them success through marketing.
Mainstage
One of the most valuable aspects of attending an ACCA conference is the opportunity to grow your network with the top contractors in America. Join us as we take networking to the stage as our ACCA 2025 awardees engage in a lively discussion on key topics facing contractors every day.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Join Greg Kurtz as he explores the critical first step: proper design to maximize the efficiency and performance of ground source/geothermal heat pump systems. This session will walk through a comprehensive approach that integrates industry-leading standards such as ACCA’s Manuals J®, D®, and S®, alongside the new Bi-national standard for Canada and the U.S.
Participants will gain insights into:
- Using ACCA Manuals J®, D®, and S®: Understand how these foundational manuals help you accurately size equipment for building design loads, select high-performance equipment within budget constraints, and design efficient air distribution systems.
- Implement Industry Design Tools: Explore international HVACR industry tools that ensure the correct application and sizing of GSHP systems for residential or light commercial applications.
- Meeting Standards and Codes: Learn how adherence to industry-recognized design standards and building codes ensures compliance and optimal system performance.
Ground source heat pumps are renowned for their ability to efficiently maintain indoor comfort levels. By integrating ACCA manuals and standards into GSHP design processes, designers and installers can ensure cost-effectiveness over the system’s lifecycle, providing sustainable heating and cooling solutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of GSHP design principles and enhance your expertise in sustainable HVACR solutions.
Greg Kurtz is the Technical Director for the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA). He has 40+ years of experience in the HVACR industry and has been largely focused on growing awareness for renewable and energy efficient HVACR systems for all types of commercial and residential building applications.
Since 1978, Greg has been instrumental for multiple North American HVACR and geothermal/water source heat pump manufacturers. He has held multiple sales roles over the years from both the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and mechanical contracting side working at a state, region and national level. Greg has developed sales and technical training programs, multi-branded HVACR product sales channels, and has developed and assisted commercial/residential architects, mechanical engineers, developers, HVACR Com Reps and mechanical contractors before joining the IGSHPA. Greg has operated his own HVACR business for five years and has worked for various independent heating, air conditioning and refrigeration contractors.
Leveraging his expertise from both the OEM/supplier and mechanical contractor sectors, Greg has a passion for establishing effective training and sales teams using educational training along with providing technical and application sales support. He has been a member and involved with various related HVACR trade industries associations such as ACCA, ASHRAE, NGWA, IGSHPA and GHPC.
He and his wife, Jan, live near Stuart, Florida (on the southeast coast) with their two Labradoodles, Izzie and Luna. They enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as walking their dogs, pleasure boating, amateur radio and travel.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
Contractors who don’t have a financing solution are missing out on sales. In this comprehensive 60-minute seminar, the panelists will explore the crucial role of customer financing in scaling HVACR businesses, especially during varying economic conditions. Offering cash and credit payment options is no longer enough. Consumers are using financing to purchase everything from clothing to furniture and cell phones, and they expect it as an option when paying. Contractors will take away an understanding of the types of financing available and how indirect lending can be effectively utilized to benefit both contractors and customers.
Todd Grzybinski is the President of FTL Finance, a consumer financing company specializing in the residential HVAC and home improvement industries. With over 20 years of experience in both the HVAC and consumer lending spaces, I am well-versed in a wide range of subjects, including sales strategy, lending technology, and business finance and operations. I am passionate about using my knowledge to help contractors of all sizes grow their businesses through financing.
Megan DeSilva is a seasoned professional in the banking industry, currently serving as the National Sales Manager at Salal Credit Union. With over 14 years of experience in the banking sector, Megan has honed her expertise in providing exceptional financial services and forging strong relationships with clients.
In addition to her successful career in banking, Megan has also made significant contributions to the solar and construction industry since 2014. Her passion for sustainability and clean energy has driven her to work closely with solar and construction companies, assisting them in securing financial solutions tailored to their unique needs.
Megan’s dedication and exemplary performance has not gone unnoticed, as she was proudly awarded Manager of the Year in 2023 for her outstanding leadership and remarkable results. Her commitment to delivering top-notch service and achieving exceptional outcomes sets her apart in the industry.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Megan enjoys spending quality time outdoors with her family. Whether it’s hiking, golfing, or simply relaxing in the fresh air, Megan values the importance of balance and cherishes the moments shared with her loved ones.
With her extensive experience, notable achievements, and passion for both the banking and sustainable industries, Megan DeSilva continues to make a positive impact in her field and beyond.
Bamboo
Join Patrick Lange in this insightful presentation designed for owners considering selling their business to a key employee or family member. Discover essential steps to initiate a fair and successful transaction, avoiding common pitfalls along the way.
Topics covered include:
- Effective strategies for valuing your business
- Financing solutions for buyers without initial capital
- Key processes and steps to implement for a smooth transition
- Strategies to maintain family harmony throughout the succession planning process
Patrick Lange with Business Modification Group specializes in the sale and acquisition of heating and air companies. Patrick has been an entrepreneur his entire life buying, growing, and selling businesses in multiple industries, including owning a residential heating and air company.
Patrick is considered an expert in the field of business brokerage having earned multiple awards for transactions and dollar volume of businesses sold.
Patrick decided several years ago to focus exclusively on heating and air companies after seeing a need for someone with specific knowledge of the industry as well as the ability to market these businesses in an effective manner to help his clients achieve predictable results. Since he made that transition, he has sold over 120 heating and air companies.
In addition to facilitating the sale of heating and air companies, Patrick also provides valuations for those who are interested in learning the current value of their business in the market as well as strategies to increase the potential selling price.
If you are looking to partner with someone to help you buy or sell a heating and air business, or looking to see what your company may be worth, reach out to Patrick on his website at www.businessmodificationgroup.com, by phone at 352-440-4604, or by email at patrick@businessmodificationgroup.com. All conversations are completely confidential.
Acacia
Contractor members often comment on how ACCA’s MIX Group® Program has transformed the profitability and efficiency of their companies. One member described the role of his MIX Group® as his “informal board of directors.” Would it help you to connect with non-competing contractors to share ideas, best practices, and seek recommendations? Join ACCA’s MIX Group® Coordinator and a panel of contractor members with a wide range of MIX Group® experiences for this interactive session, where you will learn the value of MIX Groups® as well as preparation you might need to do before joining a group, what to expect in a group, some of the most popular activities groups engage in and areas they focus on. After attending this session, be sure to attend the ACCA MIX Group® MIXer later in the evening, where you can meet with MIX Group® members and potentially join or form a group.
Gold and Silver Member Lounge
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Mainstage
ACCA welcomes top manufacturing industry leaders for an interactive session on current events affecting manufacturers and the HVACR supply chain. Leading manufacturer representatives join ACCA 2025 for an interactive Q&A session where contractors can ask key questions and address industry representatives directly.
Daikin Comfort Technologies North America
Senior Vice President
Nathan is a seasoned executive with a robust background in both engineering and business. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee Technological University and an MBA from the University of Texas, he has been a pivotal figure at Daikin Comfort Technologies (formerly Goodman Manufacturing) since 2002.
Nathan has progressed through various key roles, including Senior Design Engineer, Marketing Product Manager, and Director of Marketing and Business Development. His leadership skills were further demonstrated in his roles as Vice President of Marketing and Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing and CEO Staff. In his current position as Senior Vice President of the Environmental Promotion Office (EPO), Nathan spearheads Daikin’s efforts to advance environmentally responsible practices within the HVAC industry.
His work focuses on promoting energy-efficient technologies, including inverter compressors and electric heat pumps, while also leading initiatives in refrigerant advancements to support decarbonization and electrification. Nathan’s strategic vision and dedication to sustainability are central to Daikin’s mission of fostering a greener future in heating and cooling.
Carrier
Senior Director, Product Management, Training & Service
Braden Cook serves as the Senior Director, Product Management, Training and Service, Carrier Residential HVAC Solutions. Braden directs the product management, lifecycle management and field training and support for residential heating, cooling, ductless and VRF products, with a focus on launches in support of 2025 new refrigerant requirements. Braden joined Carrier in 2015 as Product Manager for our 80% Gas Furnaces and Oil Furnaces. Since 2017, he has held the positions of Heating Platform Leader with a primary focused on Fan Energy Rating (FER) and Ultra Low NOx gas furnace launches and Director of Residential Product Management focused on 2023 DOE regulatory compliance. Braden holds a Master of Business Administration from University of Indianapolis and a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Purdue University. Braden and his wife Brittney live in Westfield, Indiana, have a four-year-old son and have two-year-old twins, a boy and girl.
Rheem
Vice President, Residential Business Development
For over a quarter of a century, Randy Roberts has played an active and integral role growing and positioning Rheem’s U.S. Air Conditioning Division for long-term success. Since 1997, Randy has worked closely with Rheem contractors and distribution partners, helping them succeed and grow their business while also strengthening Rheem’s culture, strategy, and customer and consumer partner engagement. Randy currently oversees Rheem’s Residential Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, and Product Development efforts.
Randy is an alumnus of the University of Alabama earning his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1993, as well as an Executive MBA in 2012. He has served as a board member and President of the Birmingham Golf Association (BGA), where he has been instrumental in Junior Golfer development in the greater Birmingham community. In addition, Randy is also a deacon and active member of Mountain Brook Baptist Church. When not working, Randy enjoys playing golf, pickleball, and watching college sports.
Copeland
VP/GM of Residential AC
Brandy Powell currently serves as the VP/GM of Residential and Light Commercial Business for Copeland’s HVACR Technologies Americas business.
Ms. Powell served in the US Air Force in flight test and experimentation for aerodynamics, avionics, electronics, and power plants globally. She then joined Emerson in 1993 and held a series of roles in product management, new technology development, marketing, internal operations, and planning. Since 2016, she serves as VP/GM for the North America residential and light commercial businesses.
Ms. Powell graduated from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering, minor in Mathematics. She earned a Master of Science in Flight Test from the Air Force Institute of Technology/Air Force Flight Test School and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Dayton. Ms. Powell also earned a Master’s in Business Administration from Xavier University.
Brandy supports Veteran’s activities, and volunteers for progressing STEM in young peoples lives. She loves snow-skiing, water-sports, and backpacking in her personal time.
JCI/York
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
Brandon oversees the sales and the distributor marketing programs for Johnson Controls’ Residential and Light Commercial division. He has over 22 years of HVAC experience and has served in multiple capacities, including territory sales, product management, and national accounts.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Join Brynn Cooksey for a comprehensive review of measuring and identifying common indoor air quality (IAQ) issues. Learn effective strategies for resolving prevalent IAQ complaints and discover how to capitalize on this untapped market to generate Texas-sized profits for your contracting business.
Brynn Cooksey, CEM, CMS, RCT, was named one of ESCO’s Top 25 Most Influential HVACR Instructors of 2024.
He has been in the Building Science industry for over 20 years. Brynn specializes in residential and commercial building performance. A genuine product of his environment, he started his career as an employee of his family’s heating, cooling, and refrigeration business. He is currently the Owner and General Manager of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling, a building performance contracting company in Belleville, Michigan.
Brynn is an RSES Certified Technical Trainer and a Certified Technical Educator from the ESCO group. In addition, Brynn is also a Professor at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Additionally, Brynn is a training consultant for mechanical contractors, HVACR supply distributors, and HVACR training organizations. Brynn is a regular technical contributor for the RSES Journal and RSES Webinar series. Brynn holds several degrees and certifications in the HVACR and Building Science industries.
Brynn is an active member of many trade organizations, including ACCA, ASHRAE, BPA, and RSES.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
Join us for an exciting look at the HVACR Industry from a different lens moderated by Sarah Michel. The panelists are leaders in HVACR from across the United States and hold a variety of roles in the industry. You don’t want to miss this!
Alyssa Haynes is a Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and a Learning Experience Designer with over 8 years of experience in the learning and development field. She holds a BBA in Human Resource Management, a Master’s in Career and Technical Education, and a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design. With additional background as a business analyst and process consultant, she brings a wealth of knowledge in training needs analysis, project management, consulting, and instructional design.
For the past 3 years, Alyssa has been with Johnson Controls, where she specializes in developing and delivering training for sales competencies, soft skills, and leadership development, as well as designing learning solutions for sales process initiatives. Driven by a passion for mentoring and empowering others, Alyssa is dedicated to uplifting learners and helping them experience personal and professional growth.
Kimberly Llewellyn was a Building Science consultant for the Positive Energy team for many years and is now both a Performance Construction Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating and a PHIUS Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC). Between her formal post-grad education in environmental engineering at Columbia University, Kimberly has an intimate understanding of how the HVACR industry relates to well designed and delivered homes and continues to advocate for better practices and collaboration in her work with Mitsubishi.
Michelle Myers is the founder and CEO of Pink Callers, a fractional office support solution that assigns remote CSR’s (customer service rockstars), dispatchers, and office managers to support the trades. Michelle has a background in commercial construction and design and brings that skill set to the infrastructure of her companies. A proud ACCA member, Michelle also supports various associations for women, including WHVACR, Lady Titans and LadyPros. Michelle lives outside of Washington DC with her husband and business partner, 2 children, and 2 French bulldogs.
Lori Tschohl is the owner of Eagle Pipe & Mechanical, a leading HVAC contractor in Poulsbo, WA, specializing in gas piping, heating and cooling. With over 35 years of industry experience, she has been a driving force behind the company’s growth and success since 2015. Lori’s exceptional leadership was recognized when she was honored as the Service Nation Women of the Year in 2022 and awarded the Boundless Benefactor Award in 2023. She also serves as an Advisory Board moderator for AB80 Queens of Contracting and is a founding member and State Chapter President of Women in Plumbing and Piping (WIPP). Additionally, she leads as the President of the Jefferson County Builders Association (JCBA).
Lori has received numerous awards for her community and charity work, including the Women of Influence Award from the New York Business Journal in 2010. She is a dedicated supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities in New York and Washington, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the community. Lori Tschohl’s career is marked by her unwavering dedication to her profession and philanthropy, making her a respected and influential figure in the HVAC and construction industries.
Angie Snow is a Principal Industry Advisor at ServiceTitan, a home services management software company. She is passionate about helping contractors find innovative solutions that drive success. With 16 years of experience building her own successful HVACR business in Utah, Western Heating, Air and Plumbing, Angie focused on marketing, finances, business development, and customer service/experience.
Angie was awarded the Service World Woman of the Year Award at the Service World Expo in 2016 and was named one of the Top Women in HVAC in 2022. She served on the Board of Directors for Women in HVACR for six years and strongly desires to improve, give back, and open the doors for women in the home service industry. She now serves as an advisor for WIPP (Women in Plumbing and Piping) and as an advisory board member for LadyTitans, a women’s empowerment group for the trades.
With a strong background and a Master’s Degree in education, Angie thrives on developing individuals. She coaches with Snow Business Coaching and Go Time Success Group. Angie is a John Maxwell Certified Team Member, specializing in helping clients with personal growth plans. As a certified coach, speaker, and trainer, she speaks at home service industry events and has also been showcased in industry publications, podcasts, and webinars.
Bamboo
Learn how to dominate your market in 2025 with ACCA’s Quality Installation (QI) certificates program powered by the measureQuick®️ app, utilizing Bluetooth technology. QI certificates enable contractors to prove that they’ve used the best industry standards to stand out from the competition and deliver the value, comfort, and performance their customers want and deserve in an HVACR installation. This is a session you won’t want to miss!
Brian Feenie has nearly 30 years’ experience in the HVACR industry. He has served as General Manager for a $6.5 million Home Services Company specializing in HVACR, Plumbing, and Home Security, and has also worked with a distributor and two software companies. He has extensive experience overseeing diverse teams, managing operations, and leveraging technology solutions for business growth. Brian has also sat at many kitchen tables and has firsthand knowledge of customer needs and preferences.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
There are many myths surrounding how to generate revenue and profit in the HVACR Industry.
This session debunks these myths including:
- The 20% profit mirage
- You don’t have to put inventory on your balance sheet
- Why gross margins don’t matter (except for one thing)
- Why percentages don’t matter
- What matters more than profits
- Why cash is not the most important thing to track in your business
Attendees will discover how to really build business profit and wealth that impacts their life and the lives of their employees.
Profit & Wealth Guru Ruth King is a nationally recognized home/business services consultant, author, and HVAC license holder. She is Founder of FinanciallyFit.business, Channel Manager for HVACChannel.tv, and the President of Business Ventures Corporation.
For the past 30+ years Ruth has been instrumental in helping contractors grow profitably through consulting, speaking, training, books, and operations manuals.
She is especially proud of two partners who started working with her when they had $750,000 in revenues. Sixteen years later the company reached $10 million in sales and sold for $9 million in cash.
Her latest book, 101 Dumb Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them, was published in September 2023 and reached #1 on that day. This book follows five other #1 and award-winning books.
She will help you build a thriving, profitable business.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
The AIM Act introduces regulations aimed at reducing high-GWP refrigerant usage while preserving contractors’ flexibility. Join our panelists as they delve into the realities of the AIM Act, discussing its impact on HVACR contractors. They will explore compliance requirements, deadlines, and strategies for adapting to these regulatory shifts. Additionally, they will examine the benefits and challenges of A2L refrigerants, their environmental footprint, and the current regulatory landscape surrounding A2Ls, including ensuring a stable refrigerant supply. Finally, they’ll debunk the myth that there is a lack of reclaimed products in the industry and that mixed refrigerant cannot be separated and has no value. The panelists will dive into strategies for securing reliable refrigerant resources and the importance of long-term planning for refrigerant needs.
Anthony Nash serves as the Network Training Manager at A-Gas, where he oversees training initiatives essential for the company’s refrigerant recovery operations. With extensive experience spanning 13 years at A-Gas and 15 within the industry, Anthony possesses a deep reservoir of knowledge and expertise. From refrigeration racks and chillers to the smallest units, Anthony has recovered just about everything in the industry.
His role entails navigating the dynamic challenges inherent in our sector, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and adapting strategies to meet industry standards specifically related to AIM Act, A2L regulations, and overall safe refrigerant management.
Outside of work, Anthony has a wealth of hobbies that include spending time with family, wrenching on classic cars, hunting, and anything outdoors related. When he’s not traveling for work, he likes to spend time around the house working on various projects and hanging out with his two yellow labradors.
Acacia
In the warm, humid climate of Florida, houses are under constant siege from heat and humidity, where any minor mistake can have severe consequences on occupant comfort and cause lasting damage to the home. HVAC contractors in the Southeast United States are accustomed to complaints of “warm rooms”, “systems not keeping-up”, “high-humidity or sticky feelings”, even accusations of “under-sizing”. When looking at these complaints, there are seemingly straight forward solutions (such as adding tonnage when some complains of long-run times); however, often these “straight-forward” solutions may not actually resolve the issue. Many facets of the building’s construction, HVAC performance, and even homeowner behavior come together to generate these complaints and the solution may not be obvious at first-glance. Through a thorough review of the building envelope, airflow testing, infrared inspections, building envelope leakage testing and more, a holistic approach to diagnosing customer complaints reveals the full picture of a complaint and the underlying issues. Adopting such a strategy or working with a building science professional will save your company time and money by taking the guesswork out of repairs and providing a clear path forward to resolution. Join Patrick for a discussion of forensic inspection case studies where there is more than meets the eye.
Patrick O’Donoughue is a mechanical engineer for ARCXIS, a national energy rating, construction inspection, and engineering firm working for new construction home builders. Patrick has 15+ years of experience testing, inspecting, and diagnosing problems on complex residential HVAC systems, performing forensic inspections on hundreds of problem homes, crawling through countless attics and crawlspaces in the process. Patrick holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Florida. Patrick has published several studies in peer-reviewed scientific journals on topics relating to energy production. He is the current Florida Regional Manager for ARCXIS.
Bamboo
In the fast-evolving HVAC industry, the strategies that once brought success may no longer suffice. As the world rapidly changes with new technologies like AI, shifting customer expectations, and evolving workforce dynamics, HVAC service company owners and managers must adapt their leadership styles. Angie Snow will share insights on the importance of adaptable leadership, the critical changes you need to implement in your company, and a simple three-step approach to making those changes effectively. Learn how to stay competitive by leading with agility, building trust, and fostering resilience in your team.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand why adaptable leadership is essential for your HVAC business.
- Identify the changes necessary to stay ahead of industry trends and challenges.
- Learn a three-step approach to effectively implement changes in your company.
Join this session to transform your leadership approach and position your HVAC business for future success.
Angie Snow is a Principal Industry Advisor at ServiceTitan, a home services management software company. She is passionate about helping contractors find innovative solutions that drive success. With 16 years of experience building her own successful HVACR business in Utah, Western Heating, Air and Plumbing, Angie focused on marketing, finances, business development, and customer service/experience.
Angie was awarded the Service World Woman of the Year Award at the Service World Expo in 2016 and was named one of the Top Women in HVAC in 2022. She served on the Board of Directors for Women in HVACR for six years and strongly desires to improve, give back, and open the doors for women in the home service industry. She now serves as an advisor for WIPP (Women in Plumbing and Piping) and as an advisory board member for LadyTitans, a women’s empowerment group for the trades.
With a strong background and a Master’s Degree in education, Angie thrives on developing individuals. She coaches with Snow Business Coaching and Go Time Success Group. Angie is a John Maxwell Certified Team Member, specializing in helping clients with personal growth plans. As a certified coach, speaker, and trainer, she speaks at home service industry events and has also been showcased in industry publications, podcasts, and webinars.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
ECM motors, like HVAC equipment, are constantly evolving. Making assumptions about diagnostics and airflow often lead to misdiagnosis, replacing the wrong part, reduced motor life and/or poorly operating equipment. This class will review the evolution of ECM to date and the value of investing your time reading equipment manuals to become the expert in ECM operation, diagnostics and airflow performance. We will also discuss the evolution and value of universal ECM replacement motors.
Christopher Mohalley is the Training Manager for Regal Rexnord Corporation. He has combined his 30+ years of HVAC field experience, instruction and extensive product training to create a nationally-recognized ECM training program. These classes have been provided to manufacturers, contractors, wholesalers and instructors. Chris received the Golden Toolbox Award in 2011 from NATE and Contracting Business and the Best Trainer Award in 2012 from The NEWS and AHRI. He serves as a NATE Technical Committee SME and a member of RSES. Chris is NATE certified in all HVAC disciplines.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
As we face the wave of electrification, understanding the crucial considerations for sizing heat pumps in both cold and humid climates becomes paramount. Electrification is an enormous opportunity – but it requires a deep dive into the nuances of heat pump sizing, selecting and selling. Beyond the math involved, our panel of experts will guide you through the considerations required for cold and humid climates. From optimizing performance in these specific climates, to communicating with your customers, you’ll gain invaluable insights to excel in selling heat pump jobs. Join us for an in-depth exploration of heat pump sizing and its real-world implications.
Shelby Breger is a Co-Founder of Conduit Tech, a platform building home evaluation and sales tools for residential HVACR contractors. Conduit’s first solution is a mobile app that produces high-quality room-by-room HVACR load calculations, 2D floor plans and 3D models of homes with detailed data on building materials integrated with sleek, customized sales materials in 15 minutes or less.
Shelby started her career at McKinsey & Company, working on economic initiatives to create inclusive, high-value employment. Prior to launching Conduit, Shelby helped scale an industrial energy efficiency company focused on the pulp & paper industry. Shelby holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Master of Business Administration from Stanford University.
Bamboo
As business owners, we often get stuck in the recruiting phase and are left to depend on high generation of applicants to fill roles and backfill openings. While applicant generation is critical to business growth, the employee journey is critical to retaining employees and growing revenue. This session will take you through the applicant journey and how it is the basis for a growing a healthy company.
Key points:
- Effective job posting practices
- Effective applicant communication
- Onboarding new hires
- Retaining top talent
Kayla McCown is the Partner Growth Manager of Home & Commercial Services for CareerPlug. She is a brand strategist for partnerships on driving applicant engagement and employee retention for their franchisees and association members. Kayla started her career as an owner/operator of Snap Fitness and has spent the last ten years working to grow business with an emphasis on growing your business through recruiting.
Acacia
Join David Rames, Sr. Product Manager at Midea as he uncovers how Midea’s innovation, education initiatives and sustainable practices are paving the way for heat pumps to become the preferred choice for modern heating and cooling needs, ensuring a greener and more efficient future.
Key Highlights:
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Discover Midea’s groundbreaking advancements such as Enhanced Vapor Injection (EVI), engineered to optimize performance in extreme cold. Learn how these advancements make heat pumps a viable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating methods.
- Industry Leadership and Training: Learn about Midea’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of HVACR professionals. Explore initiatives focused on developing training programs and educational resources aimed at equipping future industry leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the HVACR field.
- Educational Outreach: Learn about Midea’s efforts to educate homeowners and contractors on the benefits of advanced heat pump technology. By bridging the knowledge gap, Midea ensures that more people understand the benefits of heat pumps, leading to broader adoption of these energy-efficient systems.
- Strategic Partnerships: Gain insights into Midea’s collaborations with government entities and industry associations to promote electrification and sustainable practices. Discover the role of new showrooms as educational hubs fostering consumer awareness and facilitating heat pump installations.
David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea, is responsible for strategy and growth in the unitary system product category. This includes R&D activities for residential heating and cooling product lines in the U.S., promoting new ideas, designs and innovations, plus serving as the primary consultant to advise specific products, SKUs and offerings within the North American ducted and ductless HVACR markets.
Amatuli Arts and Entertainment Outside Area
Saddle up and join us for live music, bull riding, and rodeo-themed food and drinks!
Visit Copeland booth 417 to get your ticket.
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Mainstage
This session is the ultimate deep dive into the advocacy issues affecting contractors today. Moderated by Sean Robertson, ACCA’s vice president of membership, advocacy, and events, and Sarah Michel, the lines of communication are wide open for contractors to share their thoughts and insights on ACCA’s advocacy activities and to help shape key initiatives.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Do you know what it costs just to roll an empty truck? Join Jim Fultz from Copeland as he enlightens you on what it takes to tip the scales in a profitable way every day, instead of losing money without trying!
Attendees will learn:
- The daily operating cost of each truck just to cover the vehicle and employee
- How to determine if you’re making profit on a call
- What happens if you make a profitable day into a nonprofitable one
With over 30 years of experience as a technician and contractor-owner, Jim Fultz brings a deep knowledge and understanding of the HVACR market. Along with graduating from R.E.T.S. HVAC Tech School, he also holds Degrees in Business Management & Marketing. Jim loves to share key insights of HVACR wisdom that technicians can use to improve their skill set and services.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
Join Amy and Robert Matheny from Service Ninja as they explore effective dispatch strategies for maximizing profitability! In the latter part of this breakout session, Amy and Robert will also discuss proven techniques for de-escalating situations with upset customers.
Amy Matheny is a mother of 8 children (5 adopted from foster care), a philanthropist, a nurse, and a part time writer (Dispatching for Dollars). Amy is an innovator in the field of dispatching and customer service using the old adage – garbage in and garbage out. She teaches contractors how to ditch their old 1980s style of dispatch and to embrace the year 2024 by dispatching in a more effective way. Using her own company as a template to try this new system, she helped her company make record profits just by changing how we dispatch our technicians.
Rob Matheny has helped build multiple multi-million dollar businesses across many industries. He is an avid reader and writer, and a lover of life.
After an honorable discharge from the Navy, he went on to build and sell multiple business’s and currently runs a highly profitable company HVAC and Plumbing. He is a maverick and innovator and very different from all the other coaches out there. He lives by the motto, “Be Different, Tell the Truth.”
He was nicknamed ‘THE PROFIT PRODUCER’ when he helped a struggling business that was losing $100K a year and helped them turn the ship start making record profits.
When you see him at an event or on a discussion panel, he typically wears a leather jacket, cowboy hat and kilt. It has become such a big part of his look that he has specialized Service Ninja Kilt designed and made for that purpose.
Bamboo
Join Bryan Dodge for an engaging exploration of coach leadership, focusing on essential strategies to elevate your team’s performance and cohesion.
Key topics include:
- Strategies for attracting and retaining top talent.
- Building loyalty and collaboration within your team.
- Resolving conflict constructively.
- Time management techniques that gets the day working for you!
Bryan Dodge’s 30 plus years in the business development and consulting industry has enabled him to become one of the most sought-after commodities in the country! His company, Dodge Development Inc., has a proven track record of helping businesses and associations overcome adversity, build their organizations and achieve their goals. Not only is Bryan an expert at helping businesses identify problem areas, but he is also especially proficient in equipping them with all the tools they need to grow and prosper. Bryan’s professional history started with a company he created in the early 90’s called “The Results Educational Network”. It included alliances with some of the nation’s top speakers and trainers including Zig Ziglar, Brian Tracy, Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins. The mission was to strengthen every aspect of what businesses were made of, including the most important asset, its people!
Acacia
Cyber-crime is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic exposures in business today. Hardly a day goes by that we don’t hear about a security breach or incident involving the loss of sensitive data to hackers. We will discuss several layers of risk management that will help reduce a business’s exposure as well as coverage options available to transfer the risk to an insurance carrier.
Dean is a First Vice President Director of Special Projects – Risk Management of Federated Insurance.
Dean began his career as a premium auditor in March of 1987. Dean has held many different roles in our Field Services department on the audit and risk management side over the past 37 years in Atlanta, Phoenix, and our home office in Minnesota. He and his wife Jeanne have recently relocated back to Phoenix where he is focused on enhanced risk management resources. In Dean’s most recent role as Director Of Field Services, he was responsible for the risk management deliverable for all of Federated and our 46,000 plus clients. Dean also served on Federated corporate teams focused on promotion and implementation strategies specific to our commercial line’s operation.
Kilimanjaro 1 & 2
Join Jeff Wanner and Jamie Kono, Pacific Northwest National Lab, for an informative session aimed at supporting the growing market for all-electric heat pump rooftop units by enhancing contractor awareness and training. This initiative is crucial to meet both current and future demands while prioritizing refrigerant management and best practices for A2L and low-GHG refrigerants.
Key topics include:
- Exploring the applicability of package heat pump systems in commercial buildings
- Reviewing electric-only and dual-fuel HVACR systems as alternatives to combustion heating, focusing on emission reduction and performance optimization
- Understanding the Department of Energy’s Heat Pump Accelerator and its future impact on the market
- Previewing upcoming guidance and training programs essential for designers’ specifications and building owners’ interests
- Discover where heat pumps work well – it might surprise you! Learn how to calculate whether a heat pump will save your customer money and help the environment, and some tools available to help you utilize heat pumps in your business
- Hear how contractors are leveraging federal incentives to boost their business
- Learn about DOE Energy Skilled-recognized trainings and certifications tailored to the next generation of heat pumps
Jeff Wanner, CEM PE, is a systems engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), where he supports the U.S. Department of Energy efforts of high performance technology deployment for commercial and residential buildings. His work includes HVACR and domestic hot water system adoption and workforce development efforts to aid proper installation and commissioning of systems. PNNL related efforts include technology campaigns to highlight exemplary projects and workforce programs to build capacity of building managers and promote installation best-practices.
Jeff has worked on many construction and engineering projects. His focuses include audits, commercial building retrofits, construction management, and efficiency program management.
Jamie Kono, PE, is a research engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), where she supports the U.S. Department of Energy efforts to build the HVACR and building efficiency workforce. She helps manage the DOE Energy Skilled recognition program which highlights training programs and certifications that align with DOE goals, and the Building Science Education website, which hosts free, open-source instructor resources on heat pumps and other building science topics.
Jamie has worked in building efficiency and HVACR for the past ten years, as a commercial energy auditor and as an energy efficiency researcher.
Kilimanjaro 3 & 4
Join Michelle Myers as she covers her first year of implementing the Entrepreneur Operating System® (EOS), from initial setup and integration to establishing accountability. She will compare the financial benefits of hiring professional vs. the costs associated with managing it internally.
Michelle Myers is the founder and CEO of Pink Callers, a fractional office support solution that assigns remote CSR’s (customer service rockstars), dispatchers, and office managers to support the trades. Michelle has a background in commercial construction and design and brings that skill set to the infrastructure of her companies. A proud ACCA member, Michelle also supports various associations for women, including WHVACR, Lady Titans and LadyPros. Michelle lives outside of Washington DC with her husband and business partner, 2 children, and 2 French bulldogs.
Bamboo
Info coming soon!
Dan Dinsmore is the founder and CEO of the data-driven creative agency Overit. For the past 30 years, Dan has been the driving force behind the firm’s use of cutting-edge theory, technology, and trends. Under Dan’s leadership, Overit has won hundreds of awards and created some of the most innovative and impactful brand campaigns. Marvel, Proctor & Gamble, Beech-Nut, and the Chicago Bulls are some of the many names they’ve worked with. Recently, Dan has enjoyed growing small and medium-sized home services businesses across the country, helping them earn millions in new and recurring revenue each year. He deploys a hands-on approach and is heavily involved in strategy, ideation, and execution for Overit’s clientele, making sure every client is set up for success.
Mainstage
After three days of enriching learning, it’s crucial that you distill and apply the key insights you gained. Join us for a session led by ACCA’s Events Committee members, leadership, and staff as they recap the highlights of this week’s conference. They’ll equip you with practical strategies to effectively implement your newfound knowledge. Learn how to translate what you’ve learned into actionable steps that will benefit both you and your company.
Portia
Now that PAHRA has been dissolved and ACCE is now the accreditation body for HVACR education programs, come learn how an ACCA member can participate in the new accreditation and certification process. This session will discuss:
- The ACCE organization and its partnership with Academia and Industry to promote, support, and accredit/certify quality construction education programs;
- How to become an ACCE Visiting Team Member* who evaluates HVAC degree and apprenticeship programs; and
- How to become a ACCE Reviewer of professional development certificate applicant program.
This unique opportunity enables contractors to contribute to the HVACR industry by verifying that education and training programs produce graduates at the level of achievement required of HVACR professionals who protect the health, safety, and welfare of their customers.
* Attendees will be eligible to attend a school visit as an ACCE Visiting Team Member-In-Training after submitting a Visiting Team application and becoming an ACCE member.
Steve Nellis joined American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) as President/CEO in May 2019. He has had an active role in the ACCE since 2003 when he was selected as the National Association of Home Builders representative to the ACCE Board of Trustees. In the ensuing years, Steve served on various ACCE Committees and Visiting Teams to verify the reaccreditation of Construction Management Degree programs. Elected Vice-Chair of the ACCE Board of Trustees in 2007, he became Board Chair in2009-2011. Steve is dedicated to supporting and promoting construction management education for the benefit of industry and academia. ACCE is flourishing under his steadfast guidance. Steve brings more than 40 years of experience in management for professional construction firms and industry associations. This includes executive-level leadership in operations and human resources roles for the publicly traded firms Centex Homes and Waypoint Homes. Steve also founded a home-building company specializing in sustainably constructed, energy-efficient homes and has operated a construction management and consulting firm. Steve’s past clients include the National Housing Endowment, The Home Builders Institute, Cambridge Homes, and Highlander Training Center.
Steve earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Building Construction Management from Michigan State University and a Master’s in Construction Management (MCM) from East Carolina University. Steve is an avid fan of the Detroit sports teams and his alma mater, Michigan State University (selected as Distinguished Alumnus in 2009). Steve also enjoys bowling, playing racquetball, and learning new technology.