At Synergy, leadership is not just a title—it’s a journey that demands continuous growth, accountability, and collaboration. This was the underlying theme of our 2024 Leadership Forum, where 77 leaders from commercial HVAC companies gathered to exchange ideas, share experiences, and sharpen their leadership skills.
Hosted in Delray Beach, FL, the forum served as a dynamic environment for attendees to engage with peers, mentors, and industry experts on pressing leadership topics. The event kicked off with guest speaker Haydn Shaw, who provided insightful perspectives on navigating communication across different generations and life stages. One of the key takeaways was how understanding the “why” behind generational behavior can lead to stronger communication and a more cohesive team environment. As one participant noted, “The life stage of people makes a bigger impact than their generation,” which set the tone for many small group discussions throughout the event.
For many, the highlight of the forum was the 360-degree peer feedback sessions. These sessions provided attendees with valuable insights into their leadership blind spots, allowing them to reflect on areas for growth. Colton Keller of Archer Mechanical shared how hearing feedback from his table gave him a new perspective: “The best part of the forum was the 360 reviews and learning from my peers… It gives me a different perspective on the feedback I received.” This sentiment was echoed by many, who valued the honest, constructive feedback that is often hard to come by in day-to-day leadership roles.
The forum wasn’t just about difficult conversations—it was about creating an open, honest space where leaders could connect on a personal level. Ryan Kerstetter from CSE shared, “There were a lot of laughs and jokes, but in the end, I got more out of this forum than I think I’ve ever gotten from any other sort of training.” His experience highlights the balance Synergy strives to achieve—learning and development, tempered with camaraderie and support.
Mentorship also played a critical role in this year’s event. As a mentor, Sean McKibban of Five Star Mechanical reflected on how the opportunity was both humbling and rewarding: “Getting to participate as a mentor allows me to be a part of something bigger than myself, and it’s humbling.” For Synergy members, mentorship isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about growing together, sharing experiences, and helping others navigate the same challenges.
The Leadership Forum also fostered an environment of vulnerability, where leaders felt free to discuss their challenges openly. One attendee, Alex Krege from Phoenix Air Conditioning, appreciated how the forum gave him the opportunity to interact with others who truly understood his struggles: “The best part was being able to be free and interact with people who truly understand the challenges I face day in and day out.” This openness is what sets Synergy apart from other organizations.
As we reflect on the 2024 Leadership Forum, it’s clear that the Synergy community thrives on its commitment to continuous improvement, both professionally and personally. The insights, feedback, and relationships formed during this event will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on each attendee’s leadership journey. At Synergy, we believe that when leaders grow, so do their teams, their businesses, and ultimately, the entire HVAC industry.
