Jennifer Butsch
What caused you to/when did you enter the HVACR industry?
I have always been interested in regulatory drivers related to product development. I entered the HVACR industry almost seven years ago when Copeland had a regulatory affairs position open and I was looking to make a career move that would allow for professional growth opportunities and meet my family’s needs. Prior to this, I spent 17 years in various regulatory affairs and quality assurance roles in the medical device industry.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of working in HVACR?
In my current role, I find the projects challenging and rewarding, but hands-down the most fulfilling part of working in the HVACR industry is the people. I interact with so many wonderful people both within and outside of Copeland: customers, end users, homeowners, trade organizations, regulators, and political leaders. It is rewarding to learn from others while making a difference in people’s lives by advancing technology to keep humans, food, and vaccines cool and safe in a more sustainable manner.
Describe the proudest moment in your career.
Several years ago, California proposed a regulation that was going to be very difficult to implement. I was part of a small group of manufacturers, end users, and trade associations responsible for working with regulators to successfully find a path forward that would meet the state goals and be achievable for those responsible for implementing the solutions. I was proud to be part of a team willing to collaborate to find the best path forward for all parties.
What challenges do women face in this profession?
There is still a perception that this is a man’s industry, and sometimes it can be challenging for women to overcome that perception. The assumption that women aren’t as knowledgeable or do not possess the same expertise as our male counterparts, along with gender biases, still exists with some in the industry. For example, I have been mistaken for a spouse at a few industry events and asked to help with preparations for an event when my male peers, often sitting right beside me, do not get these requests.
How can we increase the number of women in HVACR?
Because we are fewer in numbers, we lack visibility to successful women in this profession. Honoring women at all levels within our companies and increasing visibility to females at a younger age is important. Connecting our work to meaningful change and global impact is critical. We provide the equipment and services that provide comfort and safety during extreme heat and cold and improve the quality of air that people breathe. The products we design and install keep food and vaccines safe. We really do make a difference in people’s everyday lives.
What does your day-to-day job entail?
My day-to-day job involves interacting with others, which I very much enjoy, to inform and educate on current regulations and provide input and influence the advancement of future policy, regulation, codes, and standards. This can range from writing content for articles and publications to participating in speaking engagements to attending meetings with customers and internal stakeholders to align on technical priorities while also participating in trade association and conferences for ongoing education.
What remains on your HVACR bucket list — what do you aspire to do that you haven’t accomplished yet?
My passion lies with people. At Copeland, we host an annual STEM day. It is very rewarding to support young people within the STEM career field. Whether it is mentoring/speaking to school-age children or interacting with high-level advisory boards, I am looking forward to continuing those interactions and making a positive impact with the next generation.
What words of advice do you have for females who are considering entering the HVACR field?
The sky is the limit. Every industry benefits from having a more diverse workforce, and the HVACR industry is no different. Whether you are technical and hands-on as a technician, contractor, or engineer; or are more strategically focused in marketing, planning, scheduling, finance, or human resources, there is a place here for you. The most important thing is to find a good support system. I have been very fortunate over the years to have found excellent mentors, colleagues, and friends to guide and support me along the way, which has made all the difference in the world. Take advantage of resources and employee groups at your company. To those who are considering the field, I would advise them to take advantage of any and all support resources and consider joining professional organizations, such as Women in HVACR, that also promote women in the HVACR field.
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