The movers and shakers in HVAC&R

CIBSE welcomes Dave Cooper as new President for 2026–27

CIBSE has appointed Dave Cooper as its president for 2026–27, succeeding Vince Arnold.

The organisation says Cooper brings brings exceptional technical expertise, leadership and a strong commitment to the engineering profession.

He played a pivotal role in the development of multiple editions of CIBSE Guide D: Transportation Systems in Buildings, one of the industry’s most influential technical publications. His contributions to engineering and professional practice have been recognised through the award of a CIBSE Silver Medal and an MBE.

Addressing members and guests at the CIBSE Annual General Meeting (AGM), Cooper emphasised that engineering must extend beyond addressing immediate challenges and focus on anticipating future needs. His message was clear: “Future-proofing isn’t optional, it’s essential.”

“As our industry continues to evolve, we must ensure that the buildings and systems we design today remain resilient, adaptable and fit for the future,” he said.

AHRI president and CEO to retire

President and CEO of the US HVAC&R manufacturers association, the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), Stephen Yurek, has announced he will retire next year.

“Serving as President and CEO of AHRI since 2006 and working for this industry since 2002 has been an incredible honor and a privilege,” said Yurek in a LinkedIn post.

The HVAC Industry Journal describes Yurek’s retirement as “the end of an era”. He first joined the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (as it was then known) in 2002, and became president and CEO in 2006.

He oversaw the formation of AHRI when the Institute merged with the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association. He also helped broaden AHRI’s scope with the opening of international offices, and helped shape the organisation into a global resource for HVAC&R and water heating industry stakeholders.

“Over my career, I have had the opportunity to work with many dedicated and wonderful people while hopefully making an impact on education and environmental and energy policy not only in the United States of America but globally,” says Yurek.

Image of Stephen Yurek courtesy of Cooling Post.

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