ACCA Names Interim CEO, Launches National Search for New Leader
Barton James departs as CEO after leading key modernization efforts
Martin Hoover, ACCA interim CEO and former chair of the ACCA Board of Directors, brings more than four decades of HVAC industry experience to the leadership role.
The Board of Directors of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) announced a leadership transition as the association prepares for its next chapter of industry service and growth. Barton James has concluded his service as Chief Executive Officer, and the Board has named Martin Hoover, 2024-2025 ACCA Chair of the Board of Directors, as Interim CEO.
During his tenure, James served the association well and led important modernization efforts across the organization. Most notably, he helped guide ACCA’s transition to a fully virtual organizational structure and supported the structural improvements that strengthened the association’s overall financial stability.
As ACCA looks ahead, the ACCA Board of Directors believes this is the right time to begin a new chapter of executive leadership focused on continued growth, expanded national membership, stronger performance measurement, and deeper engagement with industry partners and allied organizations. ACCA’s next phase will prioritize disciplined operating practices that support transparency, accountability, and long-term service to members.
“The Board is grateful to Barton for his dedicated service and leadership over the years,” said Kurt Hudson, ACCA Board Chair. “This transition is not a reflection of diminished appreciation for his contributions. Rather, it reflects the Board’s responsibility to position ACCA for its next stage of service, growth, and industry impact. We thank him sincerely, wish him continued success, and remain committed to keeping ACCA moving forward in a responsible and professional manner.”
The appointment of Hoover as interim CEO is intended to provide continuity while the board conducts its search for ACCA’s next permanent leader. Having recently served as chair of the board, Hoover brings strong knowledge of ACCA’s members, staff, priorities, and strategic objectives.
A longtime ACCA member, Hoover has over 41 years of experience in the HVAC industry as the co-founder of Empire Heating and Air Conditioning in Decatur, GA.
“ACCA’s day-to-day operations, advocacy work, and contractor support initiatives remain on track,” said Hoover. “My focus is on supporting the staff, serving members, and helping maintain steady operations while the ACCA Board of Directors conducts a thorough search for the association’s next permanent CEO.”
The ACCA Board of Directors is forming a dedicated search committee to begin the national recruitment process and expects to partner with an executive search firm to identify the association’s next permanent leader.
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
