The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute announced on June 4 that President and CEO Stephen Yurek will retire in 2027, with the exact date still to be determined. The move opens a leadership transition at one of the HVACR and water heating industry’s main trade associations, and the board has enlisted a search firm to identify candidates for the top role.
Yurek joined the then-Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute in 2002 as General Counsel and Vice President of Policy and Public Affairs. He became president in 2006 and later led the organization through its 2008 merger with the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association.
That merger created the current AHRI structure, bringing together HVACR and water heating manufacturers whose members produce more than 75 percent of all residential and commercial central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, water heaters, and commercial refrigeration equipment produced and installed worldwide. During Yurek’s tenure, AHRI also expanded its international presence with offices in Canada, India, China, and across the LATAM, ASEAN, and MENA regions.
The association’s work over that period included industry advocacy as well as the development of global standards and equipment certification programs. AHRI’s 2026 Board Chairman Mike Branson said Yurek’s tenure helped establish the organization’s role in representing its members and the wider industry on a global basis.
The retirement notice also outlined Yurek’s own timeline and transition focus. “I remain focused on the work ahead and look forward to continuing to serve the association while supporting a smooth transition,” said Stephen Yurek, President and CEO of AHRI.
