REFCA Services co-founder & operations manager, Michelle Popofski, is passionate about diversity and the critical role of mentoring programs and networking events to support women in the HVACR industry.
“While we’ve made progress in changing the work culture, there’s still more to be done,” she said.
“One key step would be hosting more events where female technicians can share their experiences.
“Women need to see other women thriving in the roles they aspire to. More female mentorship programs would be incredibly beneficial, and seeing more women on industry boards would help highlight the many areas where women can make a significant impact.
“It’s about creating opportunities for women to excel and lead in the trade.”
One initiative that has raised the visibility of women in refrigeration and air conditioning is the Women in HVACR Program which was officially launched today by CCN in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioners Australia (MHIAA).
Women are invited to nominate now at www.climatecontrolnews.com.au/whvacr
Popovski said women need to feel safe and supported in their working environment.
Popovski is one woman in the HVACR industry that is making a difference and this was recognised last year when she made the Women in HVACR Top 20.
She has been a powerhouse in the commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning trade for more than a decade.
She has seen first-hand the low representation of women working in the trade.
Currently, less than one third of apprentices in all trades are women.
According to the Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher, Australia has one of the highest rates of industry segregation among advanced economies.
“For too long, the focus has been on fixing women instead of fixing the barriers that hold women back,” she said.
Help raise the profile of women in our industry by nominating for the Women in HVACR program.
Each year our Top 20 includes women from all sections of the industry from technicians and engineers to executives, sales staff, academics and administration/management roles.
Nominations open today and close August 20, 2025. The Women in HVACR
Top 20 for 2025 will be announced online in October and featured in the October/November edition of CCN magazine.