The Mechanical Air Conditioning Contractors Association (MACCA) celebrated the achievements of its newest HVAC professionals during the 2026 Apprentice Graduation Banquet, held July 8 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sarasota Bradenton Airport.
The annual event recognized the dedication, perseverance, and accomplishments of apprentices who successfully completed MACCA’s training programs while bringing together instructors, employers, family members, contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and other industry supporters to celebrate the next generation of skilled HVAC technicians.
Returning once again as master of ceremonies, Dan Jeffs of Trane Supply guided the evening’s program, while DJ Justin of Party Pro DJ provided walk-up music and entertainment throughout the celebration.
Following dinner, attendees were treated to an engaging presentation by nationally recognized speaker and comedian Carmen Ciricillo. Well known throughout the construction industry, Ciricillo combined decades of field experience, education, and humor to entertain the audience with relatable jobsite stories and practical lessons that resonated with everyone in attendance.
A special moment during the evening came when instructors Keith Van Fleet and JD McNeil were recognized for their commitment to apprentice education. Van Fleet also announced his retirement from teaching after years of helping develop future HVAC professionals. In appreciation for his dedication and service to the apprenticeship program, MACCA presented him with an Appreciation Award.
The association also welcomed new instructor Brian Conway, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join the program and his enthusiasm for helping train the next generation of technicians.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of diplomas and gifts to the graduating apprentices. This year’s class included ten graduates from the one-year Manatee Technical College apprenticeship program and four graduates from the three-year Suncoast Technical College apprenticeship program.
Among the evening’s top honors, Aiden Streich received the 2026 One-Year Program Klein Tools Outstanding Graduate Award as well as MACCA’s Most Accomplished Apprentice Award.
Matthew Morrison earned three of the evening’s highest recognitions, receiving the 2026 Three-Year Program Malco Head of Class Award, the MACCA Most Accomplished Apprentice Award, and the Klein Tools Outstanding Graduate Award.
As the banquet concluded, Jeffs thanked the many companies whose support helped make the celebration possible. Industry Sponsors included Stan Weaver, Tropic Supply, and Ruud A/C Equipment. Company Sponsors included ACprosite, J3 Mechanical, and Modern Air & Refrigeration. Filters Done Right served as the event’s Photo Sponsor, while ten Apprentice Gift Sponsors contributed prizes and gifts for the graduates.
The annual banquet once again highlighted MACCA’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and the importance of apprenticeship programs in preparing highly skilled HVAC professionals for Florida’s growing industry.
For more information about MACCA membership, apprenticeship opportunities, and upcoming events, visit macca.us.
View and download photos at ACprosite.com/photos. Search “2026 07 MACCA Graduation”.
