One thing has become increasingly clear over the past year: when our members come together, amazing things happen.

In an industry that’s constantly evolving – with economic challenges, regulatory shifts, workforce shortages, and supply chain pressures – no contractor should feel like they have to go it alone. Fortunately, if you’re part of PHCC, you’re part of something bigger. And that’s where the power of collaboration comes in.

Peer-to-Peer Connections

Across the country, we’re seeing PHCC members lean on each other in powerful and productive ways, whether it’s brainstorming solutions at chapter meetings, answering technical questions on the Quality Service Contractors’ Q-List, or mentoring up-and-coming professionals who are just getting their start in this profession. These connections don’t just solve immediate problems; they strengthen our entire industry and create a sense of community that’s become the hallmark of PHCC.

Partnering for Progress

That same spirit of collaboration extends to our Industry Partners. Especially in today’s economic climate, contractors are relying more than ever on manufacturers and suppliers for critical insight into product availability, pricing, delivery timelines, and emerging technologies. Our partners are stepping up, and it’s making a real difference. The conversations happening between contractors and suppliers are smarter, more transparent, and more valuable than ever before … and PHCC is proud to be the connector that helps strengthen and grow those relationships.

At the leadership level, collaboration is fueling progress. This summer, PHCC chapter executives from across the country came together at the Association Executives Council Spectrum Forum to generate new ideas for member benefits, share membership growth strategies, and brainstorm engaging programming for the months ahead. The ideas exchanged there will translate into real value for every PHCC member.

I also witnessed the power of exchanging perspectives with peers at this year’s Industry Partners Forum – a collaboration of HVAC trade associations representing contractors, wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers; these groups included the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), HARDI, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), and Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). This past summer, PHCC leaders engaged in strategic discussions with these allied organizations about key issues including state regulations, the refrigerant transition, and federal policy updates affecting the industry. These conversations are helping to prepare our members for what’s coming next.

A Unified Voice

On Capitol Hill, collaboration has never been more vital … or more effective. During the 2025 PHCC Legislative Conference, our members worked side-by-side with leaders from AHRI and HARDI, building a unified voice for the industry. The following day, PHCC contractors met face-to-face with lawmakers to advocate for legislation that matters most to our member companies. Every year we discover that – when we join our voices – we create real, lasting impact.

Showing Up in Times of Crisis

Most importantly, we’ve seen members come together in times of need. When flooding devastated communities in North Carolina and Texas this year, our PHCC family stepped up. PHCC chapters organized fundraisers, gathered supplies, and offered help during the long road to recovery. These efforts are living proof of what it means to belong to a connected, compassionate network of professionals.

So, whether you’re exchanging insights at a meeting, pushing for industry progress on Capitol Hill, mentoring a rising star, or standing by your peers in difficult times, know that – as a PHCC member – you’re part of a community that moves forward together.

Cindy Sheridan, CAE, is Chief Executive Officer of PHCC—National Association. With decades of association management experience – most recently as the Chief Operating Officer of the PHCC Educational Foundation – Sheridan and her team work to ensure that PHCC contractors are the best choice for professionalism, reliable products, and knowledgeable service.