HARDI Announces Hiring of Zac Johnson as Senior Policy Lead for HVACR Codes and Rebates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Madison Romero, Public Affairs Associate
Email: mromero@hardinet.org
Direct: 614.345.4328

HARDI Announces Hiring of Zac Johnson as Senior Policy Lead for HVACR Codes and Rebates

Columbus, OH— March 3, 2026— Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) today announced the hiring of Zac Johnson as Senior Policy Lead on HVACR Codes and Rebates, strengthening the association’s growing state advocacy efforts regarding building codes, energy policy, and incentive program design.

Johnson brings a rare blend of hands-on HVAC product engineering and direct codes and standards experience. Most recently, he served as an R&D Mechanical Engineer at ZIEHL-ABEGG Inc. North America, where he led complex HVAC testing system design and supported global product innovation. He previously worked as a Codes and Standards Engineer at AMCA International, representing manufacturers on major industry committees including ASHRAE, NFPA, and IAPMO, and helping shape code proposals and regulatory engagement strategies across North America.

In his new role at HARDI, Johnson will serve as the association’s lead advisor on state and local HVACR code adoption and utility rebate programs that affect equipment installation, compliance, and affordability. He will analyze building, mechanical, energy, and fire code proposals; assess cost impacts of potential changes; and advocate for practical rebate and incentive programs aligned with real-world distributor and contractor workflows.

“Zac understands HVACR from the inside out, from the engineering going into proper system installation to national code committees,” said Alex Ayers, Vice President of Government Affairs at HARDI. “His ability to translate complex technical standards into practical policy guidance will strengthen our state and local level advocacy and ensure that codes and rebate programs reflect how equipment is actually designed, distributed, and installed.”

HARDI supports codes and standards that prioritize safe and efficient installation while preserving consumer choice by allowing multiple compliant HVACR technologies and installation pathways. The association also advocates for rebate and incentive programs that focus on affordability and practicality, ensuring consumers can access efficient HVACR solutions without undue cost or administrative burden.

Johnson’s position serves as a subject-matter expert, providing hands-on technical analysis, policy translation, and external engagement to strengthen HARDI’s voice in regulatory and incentive program discussions nationwide.

# # #

About HARDI

HARDI (Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International) is the single voice of wholesale distribution within the North American and Latin American HVACR markets.

A non-profit association, HARDI serves its members through government affairs and advocacy efforts, market intelligence and benchmarking, training programs, and world-class events. HARDI proudly represents more than 570 distributor members and their 5,000+ branch locations, and close to 600 suppliers, manufacturer representatives, and service vendors. HARDI Distributor members serve installation and service/replacement contractors in residential and commercial markets, as well as commercial/industrial and institutional maintenance staff. HARDI Affiliate members market, distribute, and support heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, parts, and supplies.

Do you want to receive HVACR news like this?