In the heart of Indianapolis, the Women in HVACR (WHVACR) organization is gearing up for its much-anticipated 2026 annual conference, themed
Built for Speed. Scheduled from September 27 to 29 at the JW Marriott, this year's event promises to be an empowering experience aimed at equipping women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industries with the tools necessary for success and leadership.
The keynote speakers for this year’s conference have been announced as
Christine Cashen and
Rebecca Heiss, two dynamic figures whose expertise aligns seamlessly with WHVACR's mission to inspire and elevate women in the industry. Christine Cashen is not just a speaker; she is an award-winning author and a cancer survivor. Her remarkable resilience and engaging approach have resonated with audiences for over two decades. Drawing upon her diverse background as a university admissions officer, corporate trainer, and broadcaster, Cashen's talks are infused with humor and practical insights, making her a compelling keynote choice.
Joining Cashen is Rebecca Heiss, a stress physiologist and recognized leadership expert. With a doctorate in biology, Heiss’s approach emphasizes harnessing stress as a driver for personal growth and resilience. She has founded a leadership development platform and authored influential works such as
Springboard and
Instinct. Through her initiatives, including the Fearless Masterclass, Heiss provides actionable strategies that empower individuals to reframe their perspectives on stress and seize opportunities for advancement.
WHVACR President Jane Sidebottom expressed her enthusiasm about the selections, stating, "Christine and Rebecca bring a powerful combination of humor, science, and real-world experience that aligns perfectly with our mission. Their keynote sessions will inspire attendees to embrace challenges, build resilience, and continue to grow as leaders in the HVACR industry."
The
Built for Speed conference will not only feature these inspiring keynote addresses but will also host a plethora of networking opportunities among HVACR professionals from across the country. Attendees can look forward to educational sessions tailored to enhance leadership skills, explore career growth, and stay informed on industry trends. Moreover, programming is specifically designed to support women at various stages of their careers, creating an inclusive environment for learning and development.
Since its inception in 2002, Women in HVACR has worked tirelessly to boost the presence of women in the HVACR industry. The organization is dedicated to providing resources and opportunities for women to succeed through education and mentorship. With a membership of 1,200, their initiatives include various regional and national events geared towards empowering women, including scholarship programs aiding women pursuing careers in HVACR, whether through engineering degrees, business education, or vocational training.
As the 2026 conference approaches, the excitement surrounding the event is palpable. WHVACR continues to foster a vibrant community that champions diversity, encourages professional growth, and celebrates the contributions of women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. For more information about the event and Women in HVACR, visit their official website at
Women in HVACR. Join us in Indianapolis to learn, network, and lead the charge towards a more inclusive future in HVACR.