As more states across the U.S. adopt stricter, tighter building codes, fresh air is becoming a commodity. Building professionals and consumers are aware of this and the HVAC industry is offering solutions that focus on the addition and subtraction of air into sealed spaces.

More than half of U.S. commercial building space is cooled by packaged HVAC equipment, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Additionally, existing rooftop units consume more than 1.3 percent of the country’s annual energy usage. It’s no surprise the biggest trend driving the rooftop market is efficiency.

Technology has come a long way in the HVAC industry, and not just in terms of the heating and cooling equipment. A number of software and data solutions designed to simplify HVAC contracting procedures were on display at the AHR Expo.

Attending industry-specific tradeshows and events, such as AHR, is of huge value for not just women, but all industry professionals. Attending industry events can help contractors and engineers stay up to date on the latest cutting-edge equipment and perhaps give them an advantage over their competitors.

Branding is huge, but so few contractors capitalize on the message their brand communicates. That opens the door of opportunity for those who do embrace branding.

The digital realm continues to attract advertisers, growing at a rate of 13 percent last year, according to Strategy Analytics. And, according to Ben Landers, president and CEO of Blue Corona, HVAC contractors stand to benefit from this trend.

In order to better serve their contractor dealers, HVACR manufacturers are providing plug-and-play advertisements and other marketing materials to help contractors grow their businesses.

Owner Travis Smith believes in treating his employees just as well as his customers and has endeavored to provide them with the best health care, retirement plans, training, and tools.