Weaving Connections, Shining a Light: From World Refrigeration Day to Global HVACR Women Week

World Refrigeration Day began with a simple observation: refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps are essential to modern life, yet the sector remains largely hidden, fragmented and much better at talking to itself than explaining its value to the wider world.

Stephen will tell the story of how the idea for World Refrigeration Day was conceived, developed and transformed into an international campaign. He will explore the relationships, persistence and many small actions that enabled one idea to travel across organisations, countries and professional boundaries.

That journey created connections and revealed lessons which, in part, led to the development of Global HVACR Women Week. Although the two initiatives have different purposes—World Refrigeration Day raises awareness beyond the sector, while Global HVACR Women Week connects people within and across it—they share a belief in the power of individuals and organisations working together. The presentation will consider how we can shine a light on the people and work that too often remain unseen, while weaving stronger connections between women, individuals, groups and networks. It will recognise that women are already working, contributing and thriving throughout HVAC&R, and show how one introduction, conversation or shared opportunity can create ripples far beyond where it began.