The AHR (International Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigerant) Expo was held in Chicago’s McCormick Convention Center on Jan.22-24, 2024. It was clear to anyone filling the halls on Monday morning of the show that attendance was strong, welcoming 48,034 attendees there to interact with the 1,875 exhibitors spread across North and South Halls. Maximizing 527,520 square footage of space for booth displays, attendees gained access to all the latest the industry has to offer, including new products, technology, skill learning and demonstration.

Our first day began early, well before the tradeshows areas were open to the throngs that would have access at 10 a.m. As expected, our first event was the Taco press conference where Johnny White spoke before introducing Cheryl Merchant, the CEO and president who reinforced Johnny’s “We’re just doing it,” with respect to the onward march embracing AI (artificial intelligence) in new products, plant expansions around the globe, including here at home and enhancing Taco’s leadership role within the industry. Ben White took over to present the Dan Holohan Lifetime Contribution to Comfort, which was presented to Rich Medairos, P.E., senior systems engineer and director of commercial training for Taco Comfort Solutions. Dan Holohan joined them on the floor to give Rich one of his famous bear hugs.