The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (RACCA) Tampa Bay area hosted their 2023 officer and board of directors installation banquet at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa on March 16, 2023.
The evening began with a cocktail reception allowing guests to network and tour the impressive facility, which is designed for visitors to experience the changing water habitats from the tidewaters of Florida to the offshore reefs and the depths of the Gulf Stream.
The setting for the banquet and induction and awards ceremonies was a unique space surrounded by aquariums teeming with fish, sharks and other ocean creatures.
Outgoing President Paul Keller presented a state of the association message noting that the apprenticeship program is rebounding from the tough COVID years and highlighting some of the changes implemented since Michael Tarris joined the association. Michael’s initiatives included updating the website with an improved calendar and event management ability and renewing efforts to attract more members to the association.
The 2023 Officers and Board of Directors installed are President Garrett Lingerfelt of J.P. Griffin, Vice President Brendan Fuller of French Air Conditioning, Secretary/Treasurer Rene Houghton-Pagan of Pelican Aire Services, , Ex-Officio Paul Keller of Service Tech, Directors Robert Wasilewski of Anytime Air, Dave Gyoerkoes of Air West, Jason Hofmann of Gulf Coast Air Systems, Bryan Wade of Griffin Service and Associate Director Paula DeSantis-Tarris of Trane Supply.
The following companies and individuals were recognized for their contributions to the association:
Trane Supply, 2022 President’s Award of Excellence for an associate member company.
Pelican Aire Services, 2022 President’s Award of Excellence for a member company.
Bryan Wade, 2022 President’s Award of Excellence for an individual.
Jim Heinz, 2022 Legacy Award, awarded posthumously, honoring someone who went above and beyond any expectations and contributions.
Keane Bismarck, 2022 Legacy Award, awarded posthumously, honoring someone who went above and beyond any expectations and contributions.
The evening concluded with incoming President Garrett Lingerfelt stating his commitment to build on the advances made during Paul Keller’s term and continue growing the association’s membership.
View and Download photos from the event HERE.
