Watch the 2025 AHR Expo Panel Series
AI and Plumbing: How Smart Applications Can Lead to Smooth Waters Ahead
Feeling overwhelmed by AI, smart technology, and unsure where to begin implementing them into your business model? This session is designed for beginners who want to gain a clear understanding of what AI is and how it, along with other advanced technologies, can transform the way we think about plumbing. We'll discuss trends in AI and how they can be applied to the plumbing and mechanical field, and offer actionable takeaways you can apply right away. Industry experts will share insights on how to stay informed, where to begin, and how AI can help optimize energy conservation, enhance maintenance efficiency, and lead to growth in plumbing and business.
Speakers: Mary-Anne Bowcott, Westcom Plumbing and Gas Ltd.; Susan Frew, PHCC; John Mesenbrink, Mechanical Hub/Plumbing Perspective/Appetite for Construction Podcast; John Mullen, IAPMO; Tim Ward, Mechanical Hub/Appetite for Construction Podcast.
Cybersecurity in HVACR: Considerations for Prevention, Insurance, Safety and Training
As the HVACR industry becomes increasingly connected, cybersecurity risks pose significant challenges to system performance, operational safety, and liability. This panel will explore key strategies for mitigating these risks, including designing and implementing BAS systems with cybersecurity frameworks like NIST in mind, embedding inherent cybersecurity capabilities into product development, and leveraging advanced platforms to manage risks effectively. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how prevention, product safety, and workforce training can collectively enhance resilience and operational integrity in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Speakers: John Deskurakis, Daikin Applied; Chris Larry, US Services; Louis Parks, US Services; Ryan Sen, Distech Controls; Greg Walker, ASHB.
Everything You Need to Know About the Refrigerant Transition & A2Ls
A panel of HVACR industry representatives, including AHRI Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Samantha Slater, AHRI Director of Codes Thomas “Tom” Deary, and Founder and President, Glencoe Strategies LLC Scott Stone, will discuss the latest information about the transition to low-global warming potential (GWP) or A2L refrigerants. The session will cover the implementation status of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act and state building code updates for A2Ls/low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants.
Speakers: Jim Cika, ICC; Tom Deary, AHRI; Samantha Slater, AHRI; Scott Stone, Glencoe Strategies, LLC; Chuck White, PHCC.
2025 State of the Industry: Today’s Market, Challenges, Opportunities & What’s Ahead
Industry leadership discussion with Talbot Gee, HARDI; Dominick Guarino, National Comfort Institute, Inc.; M. Dennis Knight, President, 2024-2025 ASHRAE; Stephen Yurek, AHRI; Moderated by Bryan Orr, HVAC School & Kalos
Speakers: Talbot Gee, HARDI; Dominick Guarino, NCI; Dennis Knight, ASHRAE; Steve Yurek, AHRI; Bryan Orr, HVAC School Podcast/Kalos
Navigating the Workforce Rollover: How to Recruit, Train & Build a Strong HVACR Team Today
While the HVACR industry continues to work towards long-term solutions for replacing the dwindling workforce, and the trades in general, HVAC companies have to deal with the here and now reality of recruiting, hiring, and training new field employees.
This panel of company leaders and professionals will tackle these issues, and share how they are successfully recruiting new employees in a variety of different ways. Potential recruits include people with little or no HVAC experience, existing HVACR workforce, technicians from other industries, as well trade school graduates.
These companies employ a combination of outside training, new diagnostic technologies, and internal programs to train new recruits for specific roles. One of the keys to long-term retention is offering career paths that align with employee needs and desires for advancement.
Speakers: Tom Hearn, Hearn Plumbing Heating & Air; Bryan Orr, HVAC School Podcast/Kalos; Chad Simpson, Simpson Salute Heating and Cooling; Chuck Worley, Worley Home Services; Dominick Guarino, NCI
The Wide World of HVACR: New Motivations, EPA Regulations and Mapping with Path Forward
Colleen Keyworth will moderate an in-depth discussion featuring industry leaders as they explore the latest trends and innovations transforming the HVACR sector. Members will address key topics such as evolving EPA regulations, shifting policies, and emerging opportunities for equipment advancement.
Speakers: Troy Harvey, PassiveLogic; Colleen Keyworth, Online Access; Aaron Lewis, Johnson Controls; Karen Meyers, Rheem Manufacturing; Rick Rodriguez, Siemens
Understanding Business Opportunities Based on Your Region
Industry leaders take a look at what's trending across North America and the globe as regulations and policies change. They'll discuss trends in equipment, customer demand as well as any challenges and opportunities taking shape across various regions.
Speakers: Vikas Anand, Danfoss Climate Solutions; Nick Conklin, LG Electronics USA; Randy Roberts, Rheem Manufacturing; Francis Dietz, AHRI