While it’s a journalistic faux pas to use this space simply to preview what’s coming, I’m going to do it anyway.
You deserve it. HVACR distribution deserves it. The industry deserves it.
I’m referencing the collection of young talent on display in our Top 40 Under 40 list.
While the entire HVACR industry is struggling to attain, train, and retain qualified workers, the 40 individuals featured in the pages ahead are exceptional examples of what happens when prospects are nurtured into professionals.
Amazing Stories
This year’s list is chock full of triumphant stories.
From the womb to today, Blake Quinn has been a fixture at AC Pro. In fact, the first place he visited after leaving the hospital was the AC Pro headquarters.
John Steele, sales and marketing manager, CFM Equipment Distributors Inc., once earned the nickname “Man of Steel” from his customers because of his ability to do everything for everyone at any hour. However, a mild heart attack instantly transformed Steele’s live-to-work mindset to a work-to-live mentality. That attitude has worked very well for him as he’s since turned a $300,000 territory into a $10 million success story.
Alex Witcpalek has always been a competitive guy. That’s evidenced by his time spent as a member of the 2013 Sugar Bowl winning Louisville Cardinals. He’s found a home for that competitiveness as Sales-i’s director of sales, North America.
Munch’s Supply has always been a part of Claire Munch’s life. In fact, the school bus used to drop her off at Munch’s headquarters. While waiting for her father to finish his business for the day, she would commonly chat with some of the customers to pass time. Many of those customers still do business with Munch’s today, where Claire has grown from a toddler to the company’s director of customer service.
Age Is Just A Number
Twenty-nine, or 73 percent, of the Top 40 Under 40 hold associate degrees or greater. Nine hold high school diplomas or less. Six are under the age of 30, while five barely beat the buzzer at 39 years old.
The future is bright, and this list is further evidence of that. Unfortunately, I only have so much ink to devote to these amazing stories; therefore, I’m aiming to share more on each winner online. Every Wednesday, we’ll feature a new Top 40 Under 40.
Check out the Top 40 Photo Gallery.
