AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. — Members of Synergy Solution Group, professionals in the commercial HVAC industry, gathered earlier this month at the Omni Amelia Island Resort for the 2024 Executives Forum.

Sixty-three attendees exchanged ideas, reflected on lessons learned, and discussed strategies to address the challenges and opportunities in commercial HVAC. This year’s forum provided a space for open conversations and meaningful connections, a press release from Synergy said.

The event began with the Best Idea Challenge, during which 10 member companies, selected prior to the forum, showcased innovative ideas. LMS Building Systems was voted this year’s Best Idea winner for its initiative to enhance safety beyond business hours. The company’s approach involved setting up a company Uber account to provide employees with safe transportation options.

A presentation by Jay Bowman, a partner and managing director of research analytics at FMI, on the future of the construction industry encouraged attendees to think about long-term industry trends, from artificial intelligence (AI) integration to labor challenges. Discussions later focused on the role of technology and whether it’s a “friend or foe” for HVAC businesses.

The next day’s sessions encouraged reflection through the Lessons Learned Showdowns, during which members shared experiences on various issues, including succession planning and cybersecurity challenges. The day wrapped up with small-group discussions that focused on personal growth and building resilience in business.

Later that evening, the group honored Randy Greer, president of W.L. Gary Co. Inc., with its Loving Heart Award, recognizing his dedication to Synergy’s core values.

The third day emphasized leadership development, starting with a workshop by leadership coach Vanessa Kiley on building leadership-powered organizations. The session underscored the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in effective leadership.

The forum concluded with a discussion on employee retention and people strategies and the announcement of CSE as Peer of the Year, recognizing its outstanding contributions to the Synergy network.

The 2024 Executives Forum left members inspired by the shared wisdom of peers.

“The best part of the meeting was learning from the really smart people in the room,” said Bob Karber, principal at IMCOR.

Whether it was through structured sessions or informal conversations, the opportunity to connect with peers was the highlight for many.

As Nick Davis, vice president of business development at MSD Inc., put it: “Synergy is the greatest peer group on the planet. The uniqueness of everyone representing a different perspective from around the country and willingness to always share is truly special.”