The Unified Group hosted a Technology Forum in Baltimore on March 30-April 1. More than 45 members came together for the two and a half day session to discuss and share technology they are using specific to service, construction, and IT.

The session started with guest speaker Pat McCormick, owner of P.M. Consulting, who shared his thoughts about what is up and coming in the HVAC industry. He encouraged the group to not get overwhelmed by all the new technology out there. “Computers are toasters. The process is much more important than the technology,” explained McCormick. “Think in terms of lists – your customers, your contacts, your buildings, your assets, your service calls. Use technology to help manage those lists.” Members also had the opportunity listen to an IT panel discussion that covered topics like software integration, data sharing, and disaster recovery. Mike McHenry (Enginuity) and Allison Rodgers (The Unified Group)shared how technology is influencing sales, marketing, and business development by discussing SEO and social media tips.

On day two members were able to Show-and-Share different technologies they use for service, construction, and mobile device management. Sam De Angelis (Colorado Climate Maintenance), Sara Kaiser (Tweet/Garot Mechanical), and Bart Gedeon (Innovative Service Solutions) showed how they’re utilizing iPad’s, tablets, and wireless forms for the field.

“I now realize I don't have to have integrated forms to get started,” said Randy Greer (WL Gary). “After we check out a couple of options we will be moving forward with devices in the field!”

Eric Olinger, Dale Drent, and Bob Darling (Baker Group) showed their Energy Study software that they developed as well as facilitated a discussion on BIM/CAD. Brian Gifford (WL Gary Company) shared what they’re doing with Total Station. Members spent time in both large groups and small breakout sessions specific to service, construction, sales/marketing, and IT/accounting.

“The breakout sessions were very interactive and allowed for close, specific discussions which were very helpful,” said Jared Kershaw (Vermont Heating & Ventilating).

A big thanks to Greg Wierzba and Sara Kaiser (Tweet Garot Mechanical), Sam De Angelis (Colorado Climate Maintenance), Bart Gedeon (Innovative Service Solutions), Dale Drent and Eric Olinger (Baker Group), Brett Ludwick (Pacific Rim Mechanical), Lori Cline, VItal Mechanical), Ryan MacCauley (Entek Corp.) and Scott Balmer (Shoffner Mechanical) for participating on the steering committee and creating a great Technology Forum for the group.

To learn more about our Members of the Moment:

Baker Group - www.thebakergroup.com

Colorado Climate Maintenance - www.ccmhvac.com

Entek - www.entekhvac.com

Innovative Service Solutions - www.innovativeservicesolutions.com

Pacific Rim Mechanical - www.prmech.com

Shoffner Mechanical - www.skmes.com

Tweet Garot Mechanical - www.tweet-garot.com

Vital Mechanical - www.vitalmechanical.com