When it comes to getting things accomplished, I am a firm believer that two heads are better than one. It beats going alone all the time. For example, I’d much rather have the entire family helping out doing home lawn and yard work in 90 degree-plus heat than just dear ol’ dad doing (and sweating) it all.

(Ahem….kids, are you listening?)

Chris Colditz, co-owner of Laco Mechanical Services, is a firm believer in joint efforts, too. It’s one reason the Palatine, Ill.-based contractor pushed independent contractors from the land of Lincoln to form the HVACR Illinois State Association (HISA). One of the new association’s primary focuses is to form an effective lobbying presence in Illinois’ legislative matters that affect HVACR contractors and their businesses.

“Because HVACR crosses so many areas and systems of a structure, a contractor’s business can be legally exposed in a variety of ways,” said Colditz, the first president of HISA. “One of our primary goals in forming HISA is to keep tabs on as many of these exposures as possible and provide, as best we can, the lobbying support in Springfield and throughout the state to make sure HVACR contractor interests are considered in any legislative decisions affecting them.”

Because legislative lobbying can be - and usually is - an expensive proposition, Colditz emphasized the need for all HVACR - and related trade contractors, too - to join and participate in HISA.

“While many may be members of other organizations that do have a significant presence in Springfield, HISA aims to bring all HVACR contractors together into a strong, unified presence that legislators will recognize as the representative for the HVACR industry at large in Illinois,” she said.

In November, HISA plans to make its first trip to Springfield to introduce the organization to Illinois legislators. In addition to support in Springfield, HISA hopes to support contractors and their businesses through education and social/networking events.

Come to think of it, I may just ask this new association’s help in lobbying support for me in my efforts to get more hands involved when it comes to pulling weeds and doing other outside home yard work. It’s worth a try.

For more information on HISA membership and programs, contact Bill Semitekol, executive director, HVACR Illinois State Association, 847-514-9824 or 847-781-8801. Or, visit www.HVACRillinois.org.