On Friday, Feb. 23, around 50 participants from across the country came together in Roswell, Georgia, at Rheem's Innovation Learning Center, for the Women in HVACR Regional Event. Hosted by Rheem Manufacturing, Live Oak Bank, Hawkins HVAC Distributors Inc., and supported by proud partner Women in HVACR, the networking event was the first of its kind in Atlanta.

Designed to foster collaboration and professional growth for women in HVACR, event attendees included a dynamic mix of field technicians, contractors, distributors, suppliers, service providers, manufacturers, educators and professionals from every corner of the industry. The success of this event marked a significant milestone for women in the industry in Atlanta and set the stage for a future focused on advancing diversity and excellence in the wider HVACR community. 

Presenters at the event included top talent at Rheem, with Becky Kelly, district sales manager southeast region, and Makenzi Roberts, content and communications marketing manager and Live Oak Bank’s Jordan Cordero, loan officer service contractors. Together, these three presenters shared the latest on the evolving HVAC landscape, focusing on key trends including the following: 

•    Preparing for Policy and Regulation Changes 

•    Decarbonization

•    Homeowner and Business Financing

•    Social Media, Digital Marketing and AI

“To witness a diverse group come together to share insights, forge connections, and drive positive change in our industry was truly inspiring,” said Makenzi Roberts, content and communications marketing manager, Rheem. “At Rheem, we are focused on continuing to be a strong partner to our customers and colleagues in the HVACR industry and hosting this amazing event was a great way for us to support the growth of the dynamic women in this field. We look forward to hosting impactful future sessions.”

This event was created in partnership with Women in HVACR, which exists to improve the lives of its members by providing professional avenues to connect with other women growing their careers in the HVACR industry.