Leading the Change: Women in HVACR Appoints New Board Members
Women in HVACR, an organization committed to enhancing the representation and success of women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sector, is thrilled to announce its new executive board for 2025. This all-female board is a testament to the growing leadership of women within this critical industry where they have traditionally been underrepresented.
New Appointments to the Executive Board
The executive board now includes Kristin Gallup, who will serve as President, and Jane Sidebottom, who has been appointed Vice President. Both women bring over 15 years of experience in the HVACR sector and are dedicated to advocating for more opportunities for women in the industry.
Kristin Gallup, who previously held the position of vice president, has spent more than 17 years in diverse roles including sales and marketing. Currently, she is the director of product management for Carrier Enterprise, a well-known joint venture in the HVAC sector. Her long-standing commitment to Women in HVACR spans over a decade, reflecting her passion for empowering female members.
On the other hand, Jane Sidebottom, known for founding AMK, LLC—a consulting firm focused on strategic growth—has also made significant contributions to the industry. Her role on the previous board provided her with insights that will be invaluable in her new position.
Collaborative Leadership for a Stronger Future
The board comprises a group of experienced women who aim to not only guide the organization but also to create avenues for education, networking, and professional development within the HVACR community. Amy O'Grady, the executive director of Women in HVACR, expressed excitement about the diverse skill sets and leadership styles that each board member brings.
"This board consists of some of the most capable women in skilled trades, and I can't wait to work with them to improve the lives of other women in the industry," noted O'Grady. By combining their unique backgrounds, the board is well-positioned to launch educational initiatives and mentoring programs tailored for women pursuing careers in HVACR.
A Closer Look at the Complete Board
Joining Gallup and Sidebottom on the executive board are:
- Lori Tschohl, immediate past president
- Angela Miller, treasurer
- Crystal Williams, secretary
Additionally, the broader board of directors features remarkable women from various backgrounds and expertise in the industry, including:
- Laurelyn Arriaga, sales manager for McDaniel Metals, Inc.
- Kelcey Brueggeman, executive vice president for Service Business Evolution, LLC
- Melanie Cochran, vice president of Hawkins HVAC Distributors
- Sarah Hammond, president of Atlas Services, Inc.
- Becky Hoelscher, senior account manager for Arkema
- Lisa Knapp, president and founder of Sea of Possibility Leaders Consulting, Inc.
- Christyn Mueller, associate director for Global Learning & Development
- Linda Rodriguez, marketing and events manager for Quietflex
This diverse leadership along with new initiatives aims to expand the reach of Women in HVACR, providing better support networks for existing members and attracting newcomers into the field.
Ongoing Commitment to Education and Mentorship
Since its inception in 2002, Women in HVACR has focused on empowering women through education and mentorship. The organization hosts numerous regional and national events designed to foster a professional environment for women pursuing careers in HVACR.
With over 1,200 members, Women in HVACR continues to create pathways for women, offering scholarships and other resources for individuals pursuing careers in engineering, business, and technical fields.
As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to support the next generation of female leaders within HVACR. The newly elected board exemplifies this commitment, and together, they seek to inspire future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Women in HVACR?
Women in HVACR is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industries.
Who are the newly elected officers?
The new officers include Kristin Gallup as President and Jane Sidebottom as Vice President.
What initiatives does Women in HVACR support?
Women in HVACR provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and mentorship programs aimed at helping women succeed in the HVACR sector.
How can I get involved with Women in HVACR?
Interested individuals can become members, attend events, or participate in mentoring programs to connect with other professionals in the HVACR industry.
Where can I find more information about Women in HVACR?
More details can be found by visiting their official website dedicated to supporting women in the HVACR industry.
