HARDI Launches New People Leader Certification Program to Strengthen HVACR Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Allison Greene, Marketing Director
Email: agreene@hardinet.org
Direct: 614.345.4328

HARDI Launches New People Leader Certification Program to Strengthen HVACR Leadership 

COLUMBUS, OH – Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) has expanded its professional development offerings with the launch of the People Leader Certification Program, a new training initiative designed to equip HVACR professionals with skills essential to leading high-performing teams. 

HARDI hosted its first public People Leader Certification course last week in Columbus, OH, welcoming more than twenty professionals from across HVACR wholesale distribution and manufacturing. The program provides a structured, hands-on learning experience for individuals stepping into leadership roles or seeking to refine their management approach. Created by HARDI’s Talent Development team, the proprietary curriculum reflects the latest trends shaping the HVACR industry. 

“The ability to lead people effectively is one of the most powerful competitive advantages any company can build,” said Stella Keane, HARDI Vice President of Talent Development. “This certification is about giving leaders the confidence, communication strategies, and emotional intelligence to create environments where teams can thrive.” 

The course curriculum focuses on the fundamentals of effective people leadership, emphasizing practical application over theory. Core modules include: 

• Management & Organization 

• Goal Setting & Performance Management 

• Feedback & Coaching Skills 

• Effective Communication 

• Culture & Engagement 

• Ethics & Integrity in the Workplace 

• Change Engagement 

• Emotional Intelligence 

Participants walk away with the confidence and strategies to build trust, foster accountability, and strengthen relationships within their teams—skills critical to driving engagement and performance. 

The People Leader Certification Program is available in a private format as well. HARDI’s Talent Development team partners with member companies to identify the program style, goals, timing and location that best aligns with their organizational structure and needs. 

The new certification program is part of HARDI’s broader mission of making wholesale distributors the channel of choice for HVACR manufacturers and contractors. Through the growing suite of eLearning, certifications, and custom consultations, HARDI’s Talent Development team continues to help members develop the talent pipelines and skills essential for long-term success. 

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