The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) held its annual conference and AGM at the Double Tree by Hilton in Montreal, QC from September 17 to 19.
The event attracted more than 240 industry professionals, including contractors, manufacturers, wholesalers, and associates, to hear speakers discuss topics such as future HVAC trends and new technology, electrification, heat pumps, and workforce development.
One highlight was the keynote conversation on “Net Zero Heroes” with lawyer, former MP and hockey star Ken Dryden, who is an outspoken advocate for climate change action. Speaking with the HRAI’s Martin Luymes, Dryden discussed climate change and the role government and industry must take to achieve net zero. He also added some relevant hockey stories about this time on Canada’s Summit Series winning team.
During the conference Tara Smith, owner and operations manager of Winnipeg, MB’s Mr. Furnace Heating and Cooling, was named chair of the HRAI national board of directors. In addition, Ralph Suppa, president of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating, was recognized with the Presidents Award for his contributions to the industry.