The Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) is set to host its Annual Conference from December 7 to 10, 2024, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia. This premier four-day event is the ultimate gathering for HVACR distributors, manufacturers, and vendors, offering a platform for professional networking and knowledge sharing.
The HARDI Annual Conference is widely recognized as the leading event in HVACR distribution. Designed to help participants navigate the evolving challenges of the industry, the conference provides curated content addressing economic uncertainty, intricate sales trends, and supply chain optimization. Attendees will leave equipped with the tools and insights needed to drive their businesses forward.
Coinciding with the conference, AUX AIR USA, a global leader in residential HVAC solutions, has announced its expansion into the U.S. market. AUX will exhibit at Booth #907, showcasing their innovative product lineup and discussing their commitment to setting a new standard in efficiency and sustainability. Matt Lacey, AUX’s Vice President of U.S. Sales, highlighted this move as “a natural next step in AUX’s global strategy.”
DuraPlas, the makers of the PolarPad, will be showcasing its new PolarPan heavy-duty HVAC pans at Booth #505.
Agenda Highlights
The conference features a robust agenda that includes:
- Opening Reception: A networking event with appetizers, drinks, and entertainment.
- Breakout Sessions: Covering topics like Personal Advancement, Organizational Development, External Impacts, and Business Growth.
- Keynote Speakers: Industry leaders providing valuable insights on market trends, leadership, and strategy.
- Solutions Center: An opportunity for distributors to connect with service vendors and marketing groups.
- Booth Program: Manufacturers showcase their products and services.
- Closing Reception: A creative, art-themed event to cap off the conference.
Keynote Speakers
The lineup of distinguished keynote speakers includes:
- Ross Bernstein: Best-selling author of nearly fifty sports books and award-winning business speaker.
- Dr. Anirban Basu: Chairman and CEO of Sage Policy Group, Inc., and a noted economist.
- Josh Linkner: New York Times bestselling author and founder of five tech companies.
- Mary Kelly: U.S. Naval Academy graduate, economist, and leadership expert.
- Pamela Barnum: Former undercover officer and federal prosecutor, now a communication expert.
Government Affairs Fireside Chat Panelists
This panel will address pressing regulatory and policy issues with insights from:
- Kyle Gilley: Leader of the Government Relations Team at Carrier Global.
- Chris Forth: Vice President of Regulatory, Codes, and Environmental Affairs at Johnson Controls Ducted Systems.
- Karen Meyers: Global Vice President of Government Affairs for Rheem Manufacturing.
- Stephen Yurek: President and CEO of AHRI.
- Nathan Walker: Senior Vice President of Environmental Business Development at Daikin Comfort Technologies.
Breakout Session Speakers
The breakout sessions will feature:
- Tara Ashcraft: Communications Leader at Trane Technologies, specializing in Diversity and Inclusion.
- Greg Borr: Veteran in wholesale distribution and Senior Business Consultant at Epicor Software.
- Alex Ayers: Director of Government Affairs at HARDI.
- Jennifer Butsch: Director of Regulatory Affairs at COPELAND.
- Mike Armstrong: President and Managing Director at A-Gas.
- Corrine Beyers: Senior commercial leader in equipment leasing at PEAC.
- Tom Cannizzo: Vice President of Sales at KDL Logistics.
Venue and Accommodations
The Atlanta Marriott Marquis, located in the vibrant city of Atlanta, will serve as the conference venue. Atlanta, with its rich history and diverse culture, offers attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Travel is convenient with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport nearby. Attendees will receive a link to book accommodations upon registration.
Registration and Sponsorship Opportunities
Registration is open on the official HARDI Annual Conference website. Companies can enhance their visibility through various sponsorship opportunities or by hosting evening hospitality events. However, these require prior approval from the venue.
Testimonials and Past Attendance
The HARDI Annual Conference consistently receives high praise. Josh Rigstad of Enterprise Partnerships remarked, “HARDI is one of the only conferences I ensure gets locked into my calendar each year. The quality of connections both on the distributor and the vendor side with such an incredible focus on HVAC is unmatched.”
Last year’s conference saw:
- 1,940 Attendees
- 519 Wholesalers from 180 Companies
- 250 Booth Program Vendors
Future Conferences
HARDI has announced future conferences:
- 2025: Las Vegas, NV | December 8-11
- 2026: San Diego, CA | December 7-10
- 2027: Orlando, FL | December 6-9
These events will continue the tradition of fostering growth and innovation within the HVACR sector.
Conclusion
The 2024 HARDI Annual Conference in Atlanta promises to be a transformative experience for HVACR professionals. With its blend of networking opportunities, expert insights, and cutting-edge content, the conference is an essential event for anyone committed to the success and evolution of HVACR distribution. For more information and to register, visit the official conference website.
