High school students of GPDA members receive $24,000 in scholarships to fund higher education Goulds Water Technology, a Xylem brand, is proud to announce this year’s recipients of the Goulds Professional Dealers Association (GPDA) scholarships. The initiative serves as a valuable resource for GPDA members, awarding $24,000 in scholarships to 16 deserving students across the Read more
Industry News
High school students of GPDA members receive $24,000 in scholarships to fund higher education
Goulds Water Technology, a Xylem brand, is proud to announce this year’s recipients of the Goulds Professional Dealers Association (GPDA) scholarships. The initiative serves as a valuable resource for GPDA members, awarding $24,000 in scholarships to 16 deserving students across the U.S. every year. Each student receives $1,500 in scholarship money, which is granted based on academic standing, volunteerism and leadership skills, and enables students to pursue higher education at the college or technical school level. GPDA scholarship recipients are family members of GPDA members, highlighting the company’s support and commitment to independent dealers and young talent. Since its inception, the annual GPDA scholarship program has awarded more than $420,000 to 352 recipients.
“At Goulds Water Technology, we understand the importance of education and the positive impact it has on the future of our industry,” said Jen Manswell, demand generation manager, Residential & Agriculture, Xylem. “Each year, we take great pride in presenting these scholarships, helping to propel students toward their education goals, enrich their futures and reinforce the foundation of our industry. Through GPDA, we support our members and their students on their path to success.”
This year’s GPDA scholarship recipients are located across the U.S. and Canada, each bringing their unique potential and ambition to the water technology industry. The 2023 recipients are:
- Makayla Kemp, Robstown, Texas – A&R Septic Services LLC
- Solomon Hancock, Idaho Falls, Idaho – American Pump Company
- James Christensen, Hartington, Nebraska – Christensen Well and Irrigation
- Cazden Christensen, Hartington, Nebraska – Christensen Well and Irrigation
- Alex Christensen, Hartington, Nebraska – Christensen Well and Irrigation
- Dalton Molnar, Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada – Don’s Plumbing and Heating
- Trevyn Keene, Grand Island, Nebraska – Wells Plumbing Co., Inc.
- Kayna Deschênes, St. Pascal, Québec, Canada – Les Puits Artésiens Deschênes, Inc.
- Abigail Burnette, Concord, North Carolina – Commercial Services
- Andrew Daisey, Millsboro, Delaware – Daisey’s Well Drilling
- Braelyn Brenneman, Accident, Maryland – Brenneman Well Drilling, Inc.
- Leah Brenneman, Friendsville, Maryland – Brenneman Well Drilling, Inc.
- Vidhya Boggs, Pound, Virginia – Boggs Municipal Services, Inc.
- Ava Miranda, Hallettsville, Texas – Chandler Drilling
- Harrison Steinberger, Rockwall, Texas – H&H Waterwell
- Kenneth Muller, Ridgefield, Connecticut – Interstate Artesian Well Co.
Recipient Spotlight: James, Alex and Cazden Christensen
James, Alex and Cazden Christensen are just three of this year’s GPDA scholarship program recipients. Their family-run business, Christensen Well & Irrigation, specializes in water well drilling services. The company is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and Alex, James and Cazden are an integral part of its success.
“My favorite thing to do at Christensen Well is going out on water calls and saving the day for people who are out of water,” said James, providing crucial assistance to those facing water scarcity. His free time is reserved for outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing.
James and Cazden are headed to Northeast Community College, studying electrical construction and control, while Alex is attending University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study mechanical engineering.
GPDA is the industry’s oldest and largest dealers’ association, founded over 50 years ago. As a world-class professional membership organization, GPDA provides independent dealers with extensive technical and product training, sales leads and marketing support. More than 20,000 dealers and distributors have graduated from its education center, going on to further their product knowledge, grow their businesses and help tackle water scarcity in their local communities.
Relaunched training programs include guidance on new residential and commercial heat pump equipment, electrification and low-GWP refrigerants Course fees have been reduced, and in-person and remote options expand access for contractors New, immersive online training programs now available for new contractor certification Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announces the Read more
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Relaunched training programs include guidance on new residential and commercial heat pump equipment, electrification and low-GWP refrigerants
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Course fees have been reduced, and in-person and remote options expand access for contractors
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New, immersive online training programs now available for new contractor certification
Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announces the launch of its new 2024 Ducted Systems Academy training opportunities and industry resources. The industry-leading programs feature a combination of hands-on experiences, virtual resources, and on-demand and in-person courses at the state-of-the art Ducted Systems Academy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. All resources are developed by experienced industry experts and designed to help residential and commercial contractors build knowledge on important topics including new residential and commercial heat pump equipment, electrification and low-global warming potential (low-GWP) refrigerants.
“Our industry is in a state of rapid transformation with several major regulations going into effect, and contractors need up-to-date information to meet these evolving demands,” said Christyn Mueller, manager of commercial learning, Johnson Controls. “Our goal has always been to serve the industry as a resource. We’ve designed our newest training programs for the year ahead to focus on accessibility and affordability so more contractors can get the information they need to be successful and better serve their customers.”
Relaunched in-person training center
Fast advancements in technology and evolving regulations have created a need for contractors to build on their existing knowledge. The Johnson Controls Ducted Systems Academy provides an opportunity for contractors to gain hands-on experience with new equipment, including the latest commercial and residential heat pumps and low-GWP refrigerant systems. The 2024 program offers 40 courses that range from commercial start-up and commissioning to product essentials and customer service training.
To make these programs more widely accessible, Johnson Controls has reduced course fees and is offering train-the-trainer options for some residential technical courses to enable a single contractor to complete the in-person training and recreate the experience at their own location. Additionally, tuition offset programs are available based on partnership program levels.
“We have a trade that demands correct answers the first time,” said Stephen Love, technical service manager, Johnstone Supply. “The partnership between Johnson Controls and Johnstone Supply allows us the ability to have great technical training resources. In turn, it allows our participants to learn, practice, and perfect their trade at the Johnson Controls Ducted Systems Academy.”
One-Minute Expert program
Available within the Ducted Systems Solutions App, One-Minute Expert is a group of tools that provides instant access to quick reference guides, approximately 100 videos and customer-facing resources on one easy-to-use platform. The program is free and designed to provide valuable insights on important topics such as low-GWP refrigerants, new equipment installation, electrification, and heat pump knowledge – all within a new, time-saving format. New resources are being added monthly.
Tech Foundry courses
In response to the industry’s workforce development needs, Johnson Controls has relaunched its proven Tech Foundry, an immersive residential and commercial contractor training program in a hybrid format designed to fit within busy schedules. The 10-week course integrates remote and live learning with mentor support and peer interaction to review topics such as: refrigeration systems and compressors, tubing and piping, ventilation systems, and heating and cooling loads. A network of local labs is utilized throughout the online session to provide weekly hands-on experiences, and the program culminates with a 3-day hands-on immersion conducted in-person at the Johnson Controls Ducted Systems Academy.
Virtual courses and recertification
For contractors unable to attend in-person trainings, a series of webinars will be introduced in 2024 that include new product introductions, competitive differentiation, sales skills and low-GWP refrigerants. Additionally, virtual recertification options are available to individuals who have previously received in-person startup and commissioning certification.
For more information about the Johnson Controls Ducted Systems Academy and to preview the 2024 course catalog, please visit DuctedSystemsAcademy.com.
Carrier’s recently redesigned lineup of gas furnaces have begun shipping to consumers with Near Field Communication (NFC) – an innovative addition to support the installation and servicing of its gas furnace portfolio – included. Carrier is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions. With the tap of a phone, dealers can Read more
Carrier’s recently redesigned lineup of gas furnaces have begun shipping to consumers with Near Field Communication (NFC) – an innovative addition to support the installation and servicing of its gas furnace portfolio – included. Carrier is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
With the tap of a phone, dealers can modify installation settings and pull diagnostic information all without power or cell phone service. NFC functionality has been incorporated into the existing Carrier Service Tech App for dealers and technicians. It offers features such as:
- Built-in verifications for a quality install and fewer callbacks.
- Detailed diagnostic information and troubleshooting tips.
- Save favorite feature for repeat floorplans or multi-unit installations.
- Export report functionality.
“Best-in-class dealers and technicians deserve best-in-class systems and servicing technology,” said Heidi Gehring, Director of Residential Product Management, Carrier. “Our newly redesigned and relaunched gas furnaces fitted with Near Field Communication capabilities will help ensure our customers receive quicker installation and servicing.”
Near Field Communication is not the only enhancement Carrier made to its gas furnace portfolio. Following the recent 2023-regulatory changes, Carrier relaunched its entry-tier line with competitive airflows and 18-speeds, maximizing cooling ratings. The mid-tier line-up, in addition to the entry-tier enhancements, now also features a seven-segment display for easier fault code readings. Additionally, Carrier’s deluxe gas furnace, with the entry and mid-tier enhancements updated, includes updated blower doors and Bluetooth added for improved servicing.
Carrier continues to lead the industry with digitally enabled lifecycle solutions designed with dealers and technicians in mind. For more information, visit https://www.carrier.com/residential/en/us/.
KNIPEX Tools North America introduces the new “Master of Craft” brand campaign in tandem with this year’s SEMA show in Las Vegas, NV. As a longstanding partner to tradespeople all over the world looking for best-in-class pliers, KNIPEX will begin honoring best-in-class tradesmen who take their work from ordinary to exceptional. The brand campaign will Read more
KNIPEX Tools North America introduces the new “Master of Craft” brand campaign in tandem with this year’s SEMA show in Las Vegas, NV.
As a longstanding partner to tradespeople all over the world looking for best-in-class pliers, KNIPEX will begin honoring best-in-class tradesmen who take their work from ordinary to exceptional. The brand campaign will bring to life a true master of their craft in each industry segment the pliers manufacturer has an offering in. From automotive, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, aviation and many more the storytelling will highlight how far each master of craft has come and the tools that helped them get there. With the tagline “See How Far Your Hands Will Take You”, there will be an emphasis on the power of using your physical hands to pave your own road to success.
“For so many years our marketing communication pieces mainly focused on our tools – the applications, specs, features and benefits” Beverly Richards, VP of Marketing for KNIPEX Tools North America said. She continued “We’re really excited to breathe some new life into the KNIPEX brand in North America and feel the Master of Craft campaign is a perfect way to tell the story of our end users here”.
KNIPEX partnered with Charles Sanville, The Humble Mechanic and longtime KNIPEX user, for the automotive chapter of the Master of Craft: See How Far Your Hands Will Take You campaign. Charles is a Volkswagen technician and mechanic. He also is a staple in the automotive community, sharing his knowledge on all types of car repair and offering a place for everyone to connect and learn. He has been fixing cars as well as training & mentoring young techs for over 10 years.
Beginning in September 2022, KNIPEX Tools North America officially began working with the Minneapolis based full-service agency, SixSpeed. SixSpeed defines itself as “an independent creative marketing agency making the world’s most adventurous brands impossible to imitate.” The agency specializes in brand communication strategy, non-traditional consumer marketing, influencer and engagement marketing, events, content capture, production, and more. The “Master of Craft” campaign is the first major project between the two companies.
The Master of Craft campaign will live mainly on social channels (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn) and the KNIPEX North America website. It will come to life through video & photo assets, email marketing communication, print pieces, tradeshow booth graphics, and more.
The Tennessee-based global public relations firm’s CEO says companies that go after awards add a significant weapon to their marketing arsenals Ripley PR, an award-winning global public relations agency specializing in manufacturing, skilled trades, franchising and B2B technology, says that companies that proactively seek and win credible awards — and then strategically promote them — Read more
The Tennessee-based global public relations firm’s CEO says companies that go after awards add a significant weapon to their marketing arsenals
Ripley PR, an award-winning global public relations agency specializing in manufacturing, skilled trades, franchising and B2B technology, says that companies that proactively seek and win credible awards — and then strategically promote them — are more likely to have bigger sales funnels, more satisfied customers and a deeper talent pool than their competitors.
“Awards give your business an edge over your competition,” said Ripley PR founder and CEO Heather Ripley. “Awards boost employee morale and give your company more credibility. Participating in and winning awards increases your chances of being seen by potential customers because of the added visibility. The publicity an award generates is a wonderful acknowledgement.”
Heather Ripley
She said there are a variety of ways to promote company awards, and some of these include:
- Issuing a press release. A press release gives an organization the opportunity to describe the award and the significance behind it. Issuing a release also allows the company to customize distribution to the right trade and local publications.
- Announcing the win on social media. Social media allows a company and its employees and stakeholders to share the win throughout a variety of internet communities. This gets the word out about the win directly to consumers and potential employees.
- Including the win in marketing collateral. Businesses can use their award as a third-party affirmation that their company is established and professional. Consumers feel more comfortable doing business with a company that has built a solid reputation.
Ripley said that award-winning companies are also more likely attract and retain the best talent in their industries.
“When the nation’s top talent sees that you’re winning awards, they become more interested in working with you,” she said. “Recruits that strive for career development want to learn from the best in their field. Awards validate what your company does and how it does it.”
One company that has used its awards as an effective means to drive its recruiting efforts, increase its sales funnels and attract partners is XOi Technologies, the leading provider of technician-first smart technology for commercial and residential field service companies. The company is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
XOi has been included on the Inc. 5000 list in 2020, 2021 and 2023, and the Inc. Power Partner list in 2022. It has also made the Tech Tribune Top Tech Startups in Tennessee in 2020 and the Tennessean Top Workplaces in 2021.
“People know that PR can help you get your name in the news, but they may not realize that a good PR agency will also guide your company to seek awards that can increase your prominence,” Stacey Bright, chief marketing officer of XOi. “Having a professional writer who can then take the news of those awards and turn them into press releases that platform your company’s achievements leads to more interest from potential customers, employees and investors. You not only earn a prestigious award, but you also foster your brand in the process.”
Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, also takes advantage of awards by
Ripley said that companies don’t have to restrict themselves to awards that are issued to businesses within their industry. Winning a “best of” award in a local market or having a team member honored as the best in their field offers a company even more credibility.
Ripley PR, which was named to the Forbes list of America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021, offers its clients strategic communications services, including award recognition, crisis management, media relations and social media strategies. The agency’s unique combination of expertise and creativity in public relations helps clients build brand awareness, establish positive reputations and drive prospects to the brand.
For more information visit www.ripleypr.com or call (865) 977-1973.