The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has given its Spirit of Independence Award to children’s book author, Ryan Kiscaden. This recognition is the highest individual honor in the indoor environment profession, bestowed occasionally to an individual who is making an impact toward the overall success of the professional contracting industry. Ryan’s book, “The Air Came To A Stop,” teaches children about teamwork, HVACR technology, and having an appreciation for the skilled trades technicians. This book was created to inspire the next generation of HVACR professionals and to overcome misconceptions on blue-collar industries such as the skilled trades.

“'The Air Came To A Stop' was written to educate youth about our everyday heroes of comfort; HVACR technicians," Kiscaden said. "When you showcase how technicians help others while introducing children to new vocabulary, provides a perfect recipe to demonstrate how exciting this technology-driven field really is." 

Barton James, president and CEO of ACCA, celebrated the selection and the importance of providing children’s books as an effective outreach initiative.

“We are proud to have Ryan as a vital member of the HVACR community. Recognizing his contributions to bettering the HVACR industry and our ACCA membership was an easy decision. He is an incredible partner to work with," he said. "As we continue the momentum and grow workforce development outreach tools for ACCA members, we couldn’t think of a better plan than to utilize resources such as 'The Air Came A Stop' to accomplish our objective.”

"The Air Came To A Stop," is available in both paperback and eBook versions, can be found on Amazon and through ACCA’s online store. In addition to the English version, a Spanish version is also available in all formats and distribution channels.

For more information on "The Air Came To A Stop" or any of the Next Up Trades books, please visit www.nextuptrades.com.