Danfoss, a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency electronic and mechanical components and controls for air-conditioning, heating, refrigeration, industrial, and water systems, was recognized by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) for making the most visits to technical schools across the country during 2015.

At the beginning of the year, AHRI Chairman Ed Purvis established his 2015 Chairman’s Challenge, calling for AHRI member companies to visit schools with HVACR programs to promote careers in the industry and the Rees Scholarship Program, which provides financial assistance to qualified HVACR students.

Throughout the year, Danfoss made 83 visits to schools across the United States—more than any other AHRI member company.

The Chairman’s Challenge award was presented by Purvis to John Galyen, president, Danfoss North America, during AHRI’s Annual Meeting, Nov. 15-17 in Bonita Springs, Fla.

“Danfoss is investing to help the industry address critical issues, like the workforce gap, which we can expect to only grow over the coming years,” Galyen said. “As 50 percent of today’s contractors prepare for retirement, it is imperative that we focus on advancing the industry—starting at the technical school level, and prepare the next generation of contractors to work with the newest and emerging technologies and under a profusion of regulations and standards. This includes providing training and engaging and partnering with technical schools.”