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New Leadership of Women in HVACR for the Year 2026

Women in HVACR (WHVACR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) sectors, has announced a significant shift in its leadership for the year 2026. This change promises to nurture its mission of empowering women within the industry, addressing the challenges they face, and enhancing their presence and influence in the HVACR trades.

New Executive Board Members

On January 22, 2026, WHVACR introduced its newly elected executive board and board of directors. Notably, Jane Sidebottom has been elected as the new President. Sidebottom, the owner of Applied Marketing Knowledge, LLC (AMK), specializes in helping businesses grow within the HVACR and home services sectors. Her extensive experience positions her as a strong advocate for women's leadership and development in the industry. Sidebottom's aim is to drive innovation and success through increased female participation in the HVACR workforce.

Assisting Sidebottom in her role will be Christyn Mueller, who has been appointed as Vice President. Mueller brings her expertise from her position as Director of Global Learning and Development at Johnson Controls, where she has focused on leadership development and organizational strategies. Together, they are set to spearhead initiatives that create opportunities for women in HVACR through mentorship, education, and leadership programming.

The executive board also includes several prominent members who bring diverse experience to the organization. Other members of the executive team are Kristin Gallup, the immediate past president and Director of Product Management at Carrier Enterprise; Angela Miller, a brand ambassador for Goettl Air Conditioning and Plumbing, serving as the treasurer; and Crystal Williams, the founder of Lemon Seed Marketing, who will act as secretary.

Challenges and Initiatives

Women currently comprise only about 3% of the HVACR workforce, illustrating a significant gender imbalance in an essential sector of the economy. The organization recognizes several barriers that inhibit women's progress, namely limited access to mentorship and professional networks. To counter these issues, WHVACR is committed to providing educational resources, mentorship programs, and leadership training that specifically cater to women seeking growth within the HVACR industry.

As President, Jane Sidebottom emphasized the importance of strong female representation in the industry. She stated, "Women in HVACR is essential to advancing and developing talented women across the industry. Increasing their participation drives innovation, workforce growth, and business success." Her vision entails providing greater access and opportunities for women, ensuring they feel supported in their careers.

The New Board of Directors

In addition to the executive board, WHVACR has appointed a diverse board of directors that includes industry professionals from various backgrounds. Some notable members include Becky Hoelscher, a senior account manager for Arkema; Lisa Knapp, the president and founder of Sea of Possibility Leadership Consulting, Inc.; and Janal Reid, owner of Serveway Heating and Air Conditioning along with Next Generation Tradesmen Foundation. Their collective expertise will guide WHVACR’s strategic direction, ensuring financial stewardship and governance align with the organization's mission.

Conclusion

Through its new leadership and renewed commitment to empowering women, WHVACR aims to redefine the landscape of the HVACR industry. By enhancing career pathways and fostering a robust community of female professionals, the organization is poised to make a lasting impact and accelerate change for future generations. An integral part of WHVACR's mission since its inception in 2002 has been the pursuit of broadening women's opportunities in the HVACR field, established through numerous events, scholarships, and mentorship programs. As WHVACR embarks on this new chapter, it promises to uplift and support women, encouraging their ascent in an often male-dominated industry. For further details, visit Women in HVACR.