BROADVIEW, Ill. — Air Comfort Corporation announced Mike Devito as the company’s new president. The company also launched a new nationwide partnership with Orion HVAC Services, marking Orion’s third investment in family-owned businesses in the commercial HVAC industry.

Devito’s experience in the HVAC industry began in the United States Navy when he maintained his ship’s refrigeration and mechanical systems. From there, he was hired in the parts department at Air Comfort, then expanded his role into the Chicago Pipefitters Local 597 union. His 30-year tenure with the company gradually expanded his responsibilities as he worked his way from service technician to sales engineer to vice president.

“Being named company president is a result of all the hard work I’ve put in through the years, and I’m grateful for this opportunity,” Devito said. “I look forward to leading Air Comfort’s future as one of the largest mechanical contractors in the Chicagoland area. After 86 years in business, I plan to focus on continued growth and providing quality solutions for our clients. We invest 5,000 hours each year in training with our field employees to give them the tools they need to be the best problem solvers, and back up every solution with exceptional customer service.”

Devito follows in the footsteps of Tim Smerz, whose family has owned and operated Air Comfort for three generations. Smerz plans to stay involved with the company’s strategic direction as chairman, particularly as Air Comfort is now launching a new nationwide partnership with Orion HVAC Services. This recent business move gives Devito another avenue of company growth through additional training and development resources.

“In every role he’s held, Mike has demonstrated strong leadership qualities as well as a tremendous commitment to make Air Comfort better,” Smerz said. “In the last five years, he’s led our efforts to build a stronger team and has really charted our course to even greater success. Mike is the ideal choice to lead the company forward into the next chapter, and I’m confident he’s going to do a phenomenal job."

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