AS WE HAVE DONE in previous years, this edition contains another collection of profiles on commercial HVAC contracting firms who are consistently at the top of their game.
They are: Atomatic Mechanical Services, Haller Enterprises and Wiegmann Associates.
There are common threads that connect them, but each firm has methods and processes that make them unique.
First, they’re visible. They stay in touch with the industry and trade press. They’re very possibly involved in the education program for a local or national industry event. Haller is for sure. Eddie McFarlane, VP of Learning & Development, is on the board of North American Technician Excellence (NATE), and is an active member of Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
James Bartolotta, executive vice president for Atomatic, served as chairman of the Mechanical Service Contractors of America’s board of managers. Gerry Wiegmann participated in one of our recent Refrigeration Roundtables.
All three companies use the Design/Build delivery method, which avoids numerous problems related to project costs, communication and control.
All are committed to adopting new technologies. Wiegmann Associates use Building Information Modeling and Direct Digital Controls for increased profitability and productivity.
All three companies use the Design/Build delivery method, which avoids numerous problems related to project costs, communication and control.
“There are many advantages to being a Design/Build contractor, but the main advantage is providing a cost-efficient design,” said Grant Wiegmann, director of business development and preconstruction. “That means low first costs and low energy costs. You can have 20 engineers look at a senior living facility and come up with 20 different designs. We believe we’ve streamlined the process of minimizing cost while still providing the owner an energy-efficient system,” he said.
Atomatic is a Design/Build provider, and it uses its engineering and design staff as project managers, who work with building owner representatives to ensure proper HVAC system installation. They also use BIM, and are specialists in HVAC renovations for historic buildings.
Haller Enterprises is using XOI videos. This is a video the technician sends to the customer that explains the work they will be doing, and then, shares the results. Another is Robotic Total Stations, a laser-based measuring system. President Aaron Becker told us the RTS locates points to a stunning degree of accuracy, up to 1/16th inch.
Each of these excellent contractors has devoted time and attention to internal processes, training and communication, and building a culture of respect for all team members.
Each of these contracting businesses exists to provide long-lasting employment and career development for employees.
Atomatic has yearly “themes,” introduced by president/CEO Steve Stachorek, PE. These are used to help them work on specific attitudes that are so critical to effective cultures. “For 2019, our theme is “Choose Positive,” he said.
“One of our key values is teamwork,” said Bartolotta, “and it is embedded in our culture, not just words on a wall.”
Then, most importantly, each of these contracting businesses exists to provide long-lasting employment and career development for employees.
We mentioned Atomatic’s culture of respect and positivity, but it also has a wellness program to help keep employees fit.
And then, of course, we can’t omit training, which is synonymous with “the future.” Wiegmann follows union training programs and also has weekly training sessions. Atomatic uses a Culture Index to survey employees on workplace issues towards increasing the professional and personal growth of its employees.
Each of these excellent contractors has devoted time and attention to internal processes, training and communication, and building a culture of respect for all team members.
Haller Enterprises recently started HallerU, a training center that contains HVAC, plumbing and electrical simulators. They have a definite training track, guided by the energetic Eddie McFarlane, McFarlane is passionate about training and introducing students to the many possibilities offered by the trades. He’s truly unique and very dedicated.
Each firm will be offered a seat on the Contracting Business editorial advisory board, and receive a commemorative piece for the trophy cabinet.
Congratulations to these Commercial HVAC Contractors of Excellence!