TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Women in HVACR (WHVACR), a prominent national nonprofit organization dedicated to the cultivation, empowerment, and advancement of women within the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry, has officially opened its call for nominations for the upcoming term of its board of directors.
As the organization experiences a period of unprecedented growth—boasting more than 1,200 active members nationwide—leadership is actively seeking forward-thinking professionals to steer its strategic trajectory. The search targets experienced, dedicated individuals willing to dedicate their time, insights, and passion to the organization’s core mission: ensuring that women have the resources, representation, and networks necessary to build thriving, long-term careers in an essential trade historically dominated by men.
Eligible members who wish to step into a leadership role or nominate a qualified peer have until Wednesday, September 16, to submit their applications via the official WHVACR portal. This pivotal governance cycle invites self-nominations as well as peer recommendations, reflecting the organization’s grassroots ethos and commitment to inclusive leadership selection.
Main Facts: The 2026 Board Nomination Cycle
The nationwide recruitment campaign is designed to fill crucial vacancies on the WHVACR board of directors, ensuring the nonprofit maintains robust governance as it expands its footprint.
- The Organization: Women in HVACR (WHVACR), a registered nonprofit entity serving over 1,200 members across the United States.
- The Goal: To recruit dynamic, experienced industry leaders to help shape the strategic direction, oversee governance, drive fundraising initiatives, manage organizational finances, and spearhead mentorship programs.
- Term Length: Newly elected board members will serve a standard three-year term.
- Eligibility & Application: Open to WHVACR members. Both self-nominations and nominations of colleagues are welcomed and encouraged.
- Submission Deadline: Wednesday, September 16. Submissions must be completed online through the official WHVACR MemberClicks portal.
- Selection Process: Following the September deadline, the WHVACR nominating committee will review all submissions, conduct candidate interviews in early October, and present a slate for a final board vote in November.
Chronology of the Selection and Governance Process
The path from nomination to board induction follows a rigorous, transparent timeline designed to identify the most qualified and passionate candidates to serve the organization’s growing membership base.
Phase 1: The Open Nomination Window (Now through September 16)
During this initial phase, WHVACR is broadcasting its call for leadership across digital channels, newsletters, and industry partnerships. Members have until September 16 to complete the nomination form online. Candidates are encouraged to clearly outline their professional background, specific areas of expertise (such as finance, strategic planning, or marketing), and their personal vision for the future of women in the HVACR sector.
Phase 2: Application Review and Committee Screening (Late September)
Once the submission window closes, the WHVACR nominating committee—a dedicated body tasked with vetting applicants—begins reviewing candidate profiles. The committee assesses each applicant’s readiness to meet the rigorous demands of nonprofit board governance, their alignment with the organization’s strategic goals, and their capacity to contribute meaningfully to ongoing initiatives.
Phase 3: Candidate Interviews (Early October)
Shortlisted candidates are invited to formal interviews with the nominating committee. This stage allows prospective board members to discuss their leadership philosophy, explore potential areas of contribution, and understand the practical time commitments and responsibilities associated with a three-year board term.
Phase 4: Final Board Voting and Announcements (November)
Following the completion of interviews, the nominating committee compiles its final recommendations. The current sitting board of directors reviews these recommendations and conducts an official vote in November to finalize the incoming class of leaders. Newly elected members are subsequently notified and prepared for transition into their governance roles.
Supporting Data: The Growth and Impact of WHVACR
To understand the weight of serving on the WHVACR board, one must examine the rapid scaling of the organization over recent years. What began as a localized networking group has evolved into a nationally recognized powerhouse dedicated to workforce development and equity within the building trades.
- Membership Milestone: WHVACR currently unites more than 1,200 members, representing every facet of the industry, including technicians, contractors, manufacturers, distributors, educators, and corporate executives.
- Comprehensive Programming: The organization offers targeted initiatives designed to bridge the gender gap in the trades, encompassing:
- Networking Events: Regional and national gatherings that connect professionals, foster peer support, and create business opportunities.
- Educational Resources: Continuous learning modules, webinars, and leadership training designed to elevate technical and administrative capabilities.
- Mentorship Programs: Structured frameworks pairing seasoned industry veterans with newcomers to accelerate career progression and combat retention challenges.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Financial assistance programs aimed at supporting women pursuing education and technical certifications in HVACR disciplines.
The demand for these programs has never been higher. As the broader HVACR industry grapples with a well-documented labor shortage and an aging workforce, organizations like WHVACR serve as vital catalysts for drawing fresh, diverse talent into the trades.
Official Responses and Leadership Perspectives
Current organizational leadership emphasizes that serving on the board is not merely an honorary title, but a hands-on commitment to shaping the professional landscape for thousands of women.
Jane Sidebottom, President of Women in HVACR, underscored the profound impact that dedicated leadership has had on the organization’s trajectory:
"Women in HVACR has grown because of leaders who are willing to invest their time, experience, and ideas into creating opportunities for others," Sidebottom stated in an official release. "Serving on our board is an opportunity to have a significant impact on the future of this organization and the women we serve. We are looking for leaders who understand our industry, believe in our mission, and are ready to help us continue building on the momentum we have created."
According to WHVACR leadership, ideal candidates possess a blend of corporate governance acumen and a deep-seated passion for advocacy. While technical expertise in heating, cooling, or refrigeration is invaluable, the board actively seeks diverse skill sets to ensure comprehensive oversight. Key competencies in demand include:
- Strategic Leadership: The ability to visualize long-term goals and guide organizational expansion.
- Financial Management & Fundraising: Experience in budget oversight, nonprofit fiscal health, and securing philanthropic or corporate sponsorships.
- Governance & Compliance: Understanding of nonprofit legal standards, operational policies, and board ethics.
- Mentoring & Education: A track record of developing talent, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures.
Broader Implications for the HVACR Industry
The call for board nominations arrives at a critical juncture for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sector. As technological advancements, energy efficiency mandates, and smart-building integrations transform the trade, the industry faces an urgent need to expand its talent pipeline.
Historically, women have been significantly underrepresented in technical and leadership roles within the skilled trades. By fostering an inclusive environment through networking, mentorship, and education, WHVACR plays a direct role in addressing the broader labor deficit. Injecting diverse leadership into the governance of WHVACR ensures the organization remains agile, relevant, and responsive to the evolving needs of modern contractors and corporate partners alike.
Furthermore, a strong, well-governed board enables WHVACR to amplify its advocacy efforts, influencing corporate policies across major manufacturing and contracting firms to adopt more equitable hiring and retention practices. As more women ascend to leadership positions—both within WHVACR and within their respective companies—the cultural landscape of the HVACR industry shifts toward one defined by accessibility, innovation, and mutual support.
How to Get Involved
Members interested in contributing to this mission-driven evolution are encouraged to review the application criteria and submit their credentials before the September 16 deadline.
- Submit a Nomination: Access the official portal via the WHVACR 2026 Board Nominations Link.
- Learn More: Visit the Women in HVACR Official Website for further details on membership benefits, upcoming events, and organizational goals.
