DETROIT — Johnstone Supply The Sheehan Group has been recognized as one of the 2016 “Michigan 50 Companies to Watch,” an awards program presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business.

Since opening its doors as an HVACR wholesaler nearly 20 years ago, Johnstone Supply The Sheehan Group has grown to 13 branches and nearly 90 employees.

“We’re honored to have been selected from among the hundreds of very competitive Michigan companies and to actually be the first company selected from the HVACR industry,” said CEO Jeffrey Sheehan.

“We attribute much of our success to our deep interest in supporting education so that people in our community have opportunities,” said Amber Sheehan, COO. “Growing talent within the HVACR industry, as well as supporting basic education, allow us to give back to the community in meaningful ways that have long-term benefits.”

The group actively participates in several industry organizations, supporting Michigan ACCA, Southeast ACCA, Northwestern Technical Institute, HARDI, and multiple trade schools.

Companies making it to the “Michigan 50 Companies to Watch” list are a remarkable group of second-stage companies. Representing all regions of the state and a diverse range of industries, companies like Johnstone Supply The Sheehan Group are known for their entrepreneurial leadership, creation of innovation or use of innovation in creative ways, and their sustainable competitive advantage.

Johnstone Supply The Sheehan Group will be honored at an awards ceremony during the 12th annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business gala event, May 5, 2016, in Lansing, Michigan.

Winners were selected by Michigan-based judges from the banking, economic development, entrepreneurship development and venture capital communities.