The Unified Group, an association of commercial HVAC companies nationwide, held its annual meeting from Nov. 8-12 in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The event featured numerous speakers with valuable information for the group’s contractors. Carla Fugit of Platinum Business Strategies presented and facilitated group discussion on overcoming the five dysfunctions of a team to enhance productivity throughout an organization.

Other speakers followed, sharing insights into team building, keeping offices aligned, how to hold people accountable, financial controls and marketing.

“We all seem to have the same issues. I like the discussion on the different ways each company handles these problems,” said Alan Knowlton of Noyes Air Conditioning, Inc.

The event wrapped up with the presentation of the Making The Difference Award, which is given to the member company who embodies The Unified Group’s core goals of assisting the membership in growing their businesses and improving their bottom line profits, raising the level of excellence in the HVAC industry, providing members with the opportunity for continued improvement in all aspects of their businesses and sharing best practices.

J&J Air Conditioning won this year’s award for attending all five training sessions, as well as participating on task forces and facilitating discussion at three of the sessions. The company participates and reaches out for help when needed, but also offers help to any member in need. They are always willing to share thoughtful feedback to help improve the group.

“J & J Air Conditioning is a company with an amazing culture that can be seen in the attitudes of each of their employees. They are always open to sharing and learning from others to grow and get better,” said Janet Kelleher, The Unified Group's executive director. “They understand the power of the group and really care about their fellow members. Together we make the difference.”