Attendees of the fifth Women in HVACR Conference, Sept. 9–10 in Atlanta, were given a global view of energy and climate issues, insights into cross-generational communications, lessons on recruiting and training, as well as customer service tips.

Women in HVACR conference participants enjoyed informative sessions addressing key topics such as green building construction, leadership, recruiting and overcoming generational gaps. (Photo courtesy of Women in HVACR.)

Attendees of the fifth Women in HVACR Conference, Sept. 9–10 in Atlanta, were given a global view of energy and climate issues, insights into cross-generational communications, lessons on recruiting and training, as well as customer service tips:

  • Kathy McCauley’s (McCauley Mechanical Construction, Bridgeview, Ill.) session focused on the global, national and local response to energy and climate issues, with a focus on the impact to the building industry and especially the HVAC industry. She said pursuing green projects can positively benefit businesses and showcased a variety of resources available to help participants learn more about green building.


  • Insights into cross-generational communications were offered by Nita Brooks (International Service Leadership Inc.). In addition to pointing out the communication preferences that are typical of each generation, she provided tips for bridging gaps when dealing with those who don’t share your communication preferences.


  • Linda Hannah of New Skill Builders and Jayne Vellinga of Chicago Women in Trades showcased their Chicago-based programs that encourage women to explore and ultimately have careers in the trades. Their presentation included a compelling video of interviews with women in a variety of trades.


    • Consultant Sharon McGee’s customer-service session used humor and stories from the trenches to show how outstanding customer service easily deteriorates into merely adequate service, or even poor service.

    Attendees also heard from APHCC Texas’ Nancy Jones on how flexibility and a willingness to learn can lead women down a long, but fulfilling career path; and Renee Fiorelli, president of Peterson Service Co. (Medford, N.J.), spoke on transitioning from the first generation.

    The next Women in HVACR Conference will be held Sept. 22–23, 2009, in Nashville.