RETA Breeze_MayJune_Final_2025
RETA BREEZE
REFRIGERATING ENGINEERS & TECHNICIANS ASSOCIATION MAY/ JUNE 2025
2025 RETA NATIONAL CONFERENCE UPDATES PAGE 8
RETA HQ 844-801-3711 info@reta.org RSES HQ 800-297-5660 general@rses.org Jim Barron Executive Director, RETA/RSES
jim@reta.org Lori Schiavo Senior Director of Operations, RETA/RSES lschiavo@rses.org Chantell Schaumburg HR Manager/Controller, RETA/RSES chantell@reta.org Kayla Branson Admin/Membership Assistant, RETA kayla@reta.org Larry Copeland Customer Service Rep, RSES lcopeland@rses.org Stephanie Date Events Manager, RETA/RSES stephanie@reta.org Dan Denton Chapter Relations Liaison, RETA ddenton@reta.org Allie Dulabaum Assistant Editor, RETA/RSES adulabaum@rses.org Kali Grigorica Marketing Coordinator, RETA/RSES kali@rses.org Halie Hugenberg Training/Testing Coordinator, RSES hhugenberg@rses.org Samantha Ibarra Certification Coordinator, RETA samantha@reta.org Jason Kenny Production Specialist, RETA/RSES jkenny@rses.org Lupe Lopez Admin/Certification Assistant, RETA lupe@reta.org Eileen Lundin AP/AR Specialist, RSES elundin@rses.org Brenden Lurie Member/Chapter Relations Rep, RSES blurie@rses.org Terry McIver Editor, RETA/RSES tmciver@rses.org Scott Melton Education Coordinator, RETA/RSES scott@reta.org Mitzy Osgood Admin/Membership Assistant, RETA mitzy@reta.org Kim Turner AP/AR Specialist, RETA kim@reta.org
Evolution of the Receiver
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Message from the President............. 4 From the Desk of the Executive Director.............................................. 6 Conference Corner 2025 RETA National Conference ............. 8 RETA News...................................... 16 Discovering RETA: One Member’s Journey ......................... 18 Codes & Standards, Part Four of Many: Refrigeration Standards & Codes .......... 20
Evolution of the Receiver............... 22 RETA Membership Corner........... 25 Education Corner........................... 26
RETA Testing Corner No. 48 RETA Is Working to Add HVACR
to ANAB Accreditation ......................... 28 Certification Honor Roll................ 30
REFRIGERATING ENGINEERS & TECHNICIANS ASSOCIATION 1725 Ferry St. SW, Albany, OR 97322 Telephone: 541.497.2955 Fax: 541.497.2966 RETA.com
The RETA Breeze is the official publication of the Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association (RETA). RETA is an international not-for-profit association whose mission is to enhance the professional development of industrial refrigeration operating and technical engineers.
The information in this publication is based on the collective experience of industry engineers and technicians. Although the information is intended to be comprehensive and thorough, it is subject to change. The Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association expressly disclaims any warranty of fitness for a particular application, as well as all claims for compensatory, consequential or other damages arising out of or related to the uses of this publication. Publication of advertisements in Breeze, or any other RETA publication, does not constitute endorsement of any products, services or advertisers by RETA and shall not be considered or represented by advertiser as such. Copyright © 2025 Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association.
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2024-25 BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Michael Hawkins, CARO Midatlantic Refrigeration, LLC
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL PRESIDENT David Gulcynski, CRES, CIRO Dot Foods, Inc EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Bill Lape, CARO, CIRO, CRST SCS Tracer Environmental
Hello all! I hope everyone reading this is well! The year is flying by. As we pass the half- way mark, I think about how busy the year has been. I have also taken a lot of time to think about RETA-RSES as a singular organ- ization. While there still is some separation, the two organizations together are beginn- ing to show a lot of new life. We continue to see more information about the organiza tion on social media, which is great! News on educational events conducted by RSES or RETA is always good to see. On the topic of education, summer is an extremely busy time for all the folks who work in the different sectors of our industry. As ambient temperatures go up, residential HVAC and commercial and industrial refriger- ation technicians begin to get very busy. This leaves less time for education and training. While time is valuable, continuing your education and expanding your know- ledge is just as valuable. Reaching out to RETA or RSES HQ is a great way to find out how you can take advantage of educational materials and events that can be worked into your busy schedules. In one of my messages in RSES Journal, I discussed getting involved with the organiza- tion, whether it is at the local Chapter level or getting involved with one of the many committees RETA-RSES has to offer. Get involved and you will get a free education. When I attend Chapter meetings, National Conferences or sit in on a Committee meeting, I always leave with something new learned. If you are dealing with a technical issue on the job and are strug gling to figure it out, there may be someone out there who has already dealt with that same issue; and there is a good chance you might meet them at a RETA-RSES event or meeting. Again, being involved at any level always provides valuable education experiences.
Along with news in social media and education in our industry, the RETA and RSES HQ offices have added some new staff. Terry McIver is our latest addition as our Publications Editor, and Allie Dulabaum is now our Assistant Editor. Chantell Schaum burg is our new Office Manager/Controller at RETA HQ, and Kali Grigorica is our new Marketing Coordinator. Feel free to take some time to reach out to any of these folks to introduce yourself and get to know each of them. The 2025 RETA National Conference is closer than we think—, as stated, the year is flying by. Registration is open on the RETA website. There are topics for every side of our industry! If you plan to attend, get your registration completed early and take advantage of the early-bird discount. I am personally looking
TREASURER Ray Urban, Jr, CARO Lineage Logistics SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Jeremy Murfin AC & R Specialists
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeremiah Armstrong
Brakebush Brothers Melissa Cassell General Refrigeration Dale Clinton, CIRO, CRST Stellar Brynn Cooksey, CMS Air Doctor Heating and Cooling Mike Davis Republic Refrigeration Ron Fetterley, CARO, CIRO, CRST Applied Process Cooling Corporate Jayson Goff, CMS CoolSys Brandon Jones, CARO Tyson Foods Eric Kaiser TruTech Tools, Ltd Jim Kovarik Gamma Graphics Service Joe Marchese, CMS Koldcraft Refrigeration Services Casey McConnaughy Johnson Controls Technical Services
forward to seeing everyone there! Thank you for reading and take care!
Dave Gulcynski, CRES, CIRO RETA-RSES International President
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Mike Missall, CARO Summit Refrigeration Group Jodie Rukamp SCS Tracer Environmental Gary Struhar, CMS Retired Harrison Travis, CM Sanden Vendo America, Inc
FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
COMMITTEE CHAIRS Certification: Lee Pyle, CARO SCS Engineers National Conference: Jim Kovarik Gamma Graphics Services Education: Don Tragethon, CIRO, CRST, RAI Retired Publications: Vern Sanderson, CIRO, CRST, RAI Schwan’s Company Marketing: Jodie Rukamp SCS Engineers Membership: Jason Daniell, CIRO APSM As a non-profit association, RETA is governed by a board elected by its members. RETA was pleased to announce the 2024/2025 Officers and Board of Directors at the Annual Business Meeting, held at the National Conference in Grapevine, Texas. RETA board members serve a 3-year term and volunteer their time and energy to directly impact our community and association. The 16-member board and 5-member executive committee aim for both diversity of perspective and depth of expertise. There is a strength with our staggered terms and the Board is always changing. RETA Executive Director, Jim Barron congratulates and welcomes all new members to the board. We thank our outgoing members and welcome new members, as well as extend a heartfelt thanks to Directors past, present, and future for their contributions and dedication to RETA’s mission.
systems do more than provide comfort. They protect health. Seniors and young children rely on heating and cooling to stay safe in extreme temperatures. During the pandemic, HVAC technicians were even classified as essential workers by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The work we do is critical, and it is respected. Powering the Food Supply Chain —Perhaps even more unseen is the role of the industrial and commercial refrigeration in our food system. Every meal you eat has likely been kept fresh by an industrial/commercial refrigeration system at some point. From food processing plants to transport vehicles and grocery stores, refrigeration protects the safety and quality of what we consume. Refrigeration technicians ensure that these systems run properly. By entering this field, you help protect the food supply and keep communities fed. There are few careers with this kind of immediate impact. Opportunity is There. We Need Aware ness—We are not short on jobs. We are short on people who know about them. The HVACR industry has tens of thousands
A Call to Those Seeking a Stable, Growing and Rewarding Career Our industry is essential. Not just impor tant. Essential. Every day, industrial/ commercial refrigeration and HVAC systems preserve the global food supply, protect life-saving medicines, and maintain the safety and comfort of millions of homes and workplaces. Without highly skilled technicians and operators, the systems that keep food fresh, warehouses cold and homes livable would fail. That is why recruiting isn’t just an HR initiative. It is the lifeblood of the future. We are not facing a skills problem. We are facing an awareness problem. Too few young people know what we do. Fewer still understand the stability, importance and reward this career path offers. Keeping Homes Safe and Comfortable — When you relax in a cool room on a scorching day or stay warm during a winter storm, it is not magic. It is made possible by HVAC professionals who make it possible. Modern life relies on HVAC quietly working in the background. These
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of openings and not enough skilled people to fill them. The average technician is nearing retirement age. That means more openings, more responsibility, and more opportunities for new professionals to enter and advance. This is not a dead-end job. It is a respected trade with long-term security. It is also a field that needs young people now. A Stable and Rewarding Career Path — If you are looking for work that pays well, can’t be outsourced and provides a clear path for growth, this is it. You can earn a strong income, often without a four-year degree. You will work in a high-demand field that rewards those who show up and learn. Many who enter this field go on to run projects, manage teams, or start bus- inesses of their own. This is a career you can count on, with the kind of everyday impact you can be proud of. World-class Training through RETA-RSES — Training in this field is not guesswork. Organizations like the Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association (RETA) and Refrigeration Service Engineers Society
(RSES) provide some of the best training in the country for those entering refrigeration careers. These programs are rigorous, respected and designed to prepare people for the real work ahead. They teach the fundamentals and the advanced systems that power our food infrastructure. If you are serious about building a future in this industry, RETA and RSES is where you start. The Time to Step In Is Now —We need the next generation of HVAC and refrigeration professionals. Not someday. Now. This is a field that serves the public good, that pays well, and that offers more opportunities than people realize. I invite you to look closely. If you are ready to do work that matters, that lasts, and that makes a real difference, this industry is ready for you.
James (Jim) Barron Executive Director RETA/RSES
Adiabatic Cooler Fluid Coolers | Condensers | CO2 Gas Coolers
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CONFERENCE CORNER
2025 RETA NATIONAL CONFERENCE OCT. 20–24, 2025 SPOKANE CONVENTION CENTER SPOKANE, WA
Spokane Convention Center
W hether you're a student, technician, engineer, or manager, the RETA National Conference offers education for every level of experience. Sessions are designed to empower attendees with tools, knowledge and practical solutions to advance within the rapidly evolving refrigeration field. 2025 EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Saturday-Monday Train the Trainer, CARO, CIRO, CRST, CRES Review Courses (24 hrs) 8 am-5 pm Sunday-Monday IIAR 9 Certificate Course (16 hrs) 8 am-5 pm
Join us in the heart of the beautiful Pacific Northwest for the 2025 RETA National Conference! Held at the Spokane Convention Center along the scenic Spokane River, this year’s event promises immersive hands-on training, impactful technical presentations, expert-led workshops, unmatched networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing more than 100 innovative exhibitors from across the industrial refrigeration industry.
Monday Workshops (Preregistration Required) • Management of Change (6 hrs) 8 am-4 pm • Oil Minion - Oil Draining (3 hrs) 8 am-12 pm • ASTI Ammonia Release Event: Non Response is NOT an Option 8 am-5 pm Hands-On Sessions Additional educational sessions such as Hands-On will be available to attend. These sessions present a unique opportunity to physically work on systems to gain hands on knowledge and perspective. • Compressor Inspection: Part 1 Recip Part 2 Screw (2 hrs)
By Stephanie Date, RETA Events Manager
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• Oil Draining (1 hr) • Liquid Line Break & Control Valve Operation (2 hrs) • Relief Valve (1 hr) Operations • A Panel Discussion: Contact Lenses in Industrial Refrigeration. Harmful or Helpful? • ARC Flash Safety Update—10 Things to Know That Might Kill You • Don't Get Superheated: A Subcooled Look at Operator Frustrations with Density and Specific Volume Tables • Epic Fails • High Humidity Hot-Gas Defrost Cycle • The Operators Challenge (2 hrs) Compliance • Addressing Common PSM Challenges using Industry Standards • Ammonia Inventory-Calculations and Real-World Case Study • Effortless Process Hazard Analyses: A Guide to Make it Easier • EPA Region 10: What's Happening, Does it Affect Me, What to Do • Low GWP Refrigerants • Mastering PSM: A Strategic Guide to Elevating Your Program (2 hrs) • Notification Exercises for RMP-Regulated Facilities • Operators: The Key to a Process Hazard Analysis • OSHA & EPA Inspection Questions & Answers • Qualifying Ammonia Refrigeration Contractors • Summary of Natural Refrigerants Codes & Standards
• Energy Efficiency—It Takes an Army • From Shortage to Solution: Navigating the Skills Crisis in Industrial Refrigeration • Trouble Shooting with Variable Analysis • Using Tools at Hand for Operator Training RSES Sessions • Evac uation Preparedness—Are You Ready? • Preventing Repeat Compressor Failures • Radiant Snow Melting Training & Development • Cha pter Leaders Round Table • History of Refrigeration Volume 2 • The Audience is in Their Underwear: The Art of Public Speaking • The Transition from School to Work: Expectations for All Professionals • WiNR Workshop (2 hrs) Each one-hour educational session equals 1 PDH credit. You will gain invaluable informa tion and knowledge from a trained professional instructing the class. Each session will be held 2-3 times during the conference, allowing you the opportunity to attend as many educational sessions as possible.
Engineering • A Breakthrough in Low-Charge Ammo nia Systems for Enhanced Energy Efficiency • A Comparative Analysis of the Use of Modbus and 4-20 mA Control Signal Standards in Ammonia Leak Detection (presented in English & Spanish) • CO2 Systems Add-Ons: Calculations and Field Measurements • Corrosion Allowance of Pressure Vessels and Piping in Ammonia Refrigeration Services • Enhancing Thermal Performance in Ammonia Refrigeration: An Experimental Study on Diffuser-Optimized Cooling in Meat Storage within the Food Industry • Refrigeration Boosting of Freezers and Chillers That Are Struggling to Maintain Temperature • Refrigeration System Energy Efficiency • The Right Evaporator for the Right Application (presented in English & Spanish) • Unlocking Refrigeration Efficiency with Solid Desiccant Dehumidification
Management • Amm onia Mitigation—The 2025 Perspective
• Building Talent Pipelines in the Industrial Refrigeration Industry through Strategic Partnerships and Education
Emergency • The Jose Mata Story
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REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! RETA National conference provides a unique gathering of networking, learning, and fun into a single platform. Go to https://reta.com/page/2025-conference register to register today!
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Spokane City Center 322 N Spokane Falls Ct. Spokane, WA 99201 (509) 455-9600 (mention RETA) $159.00 per night (does not include taxes and fees)
The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection 333 W Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201 (509) 458-3330 (mention RETA) $169.00 per night (does not include taxes and fees)
CERTIFICATION TESTING RETA certification exams are accredited by ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board), established to maintain and ensure the highest industry standards are set and met on a continuous and ongoing basis. ANAB is recognized and highly regarded by regulatory agencies such as EPA and OSHA in the establishment and maintenance of the highest industrial and safety bench marks. Certification testing is offered during the RETA National conference during seven time periods and must be reserved in advance. Tuesday-Thursday 8:30 am – 11:30 am & 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm (Friday 8:30 am – 11:30 am only available) Please contact Samantha Ibarra at samantha@reta.org or by calling 541-497 2955.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The cut-off date for the group rate is Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. Reservations received after this date will be on a space and best rate available basis. Attendees who need to book a room may contact the two contracted hotels directly using the phone numbers above for the best available room rate during the dates of Conference.
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RETA 2025 AIRLINE PARTNERS | BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS AND SAVE! RETA is thrilled to announce exciting new travel partnerships with Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines for the 2025 RETA National Conference! Whether you’re coming from across the country or just a few states away, our airline partners are making it easier—and more affordable—than ever to get to the industry’s most anticipated event of the year.
Are you REAL ID ready? A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license, permit, or identification card that meets federal security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. REAL IDs are required for boarding domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Visit www.tsa.gov/ real-id for more information.
Alaska Airlines is proud to support the RETA National Conference with discounted fares. Alaska Fare Discounts: 7% - Most Published Fares Available Travel Dates: Oct. 15, 2025 to Oct. 29, 2025 ___________________________________ Departure Cities: Any Alaska Airlines/ Horizon Air/Hawaiian Airlines US, Cana dian, or Mexico City Meeting City: Spokane, WA Please refer to Baggage policies | Alaska Airlines, before traveling Visit www.AlaskaAir.com or call the Alaska Airlines Group Desk at 1-800-445-4435 (Mon–Fri, 8:00 am – 6:30 pm EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code: ECMO376. A $15 service fee applies when booking via the Alaska Airlines Group Desk. To use your Discount Code, input the Discount Code when searching for flights. The discount will be applied to any applicable flights.
Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer exclusive discounts to RETA attendees! Delta Branded Fare Discounts: 8% - Delta One / First Class 5% - Delta Premium Select /Comfort + 3% - Main Cabin N/A - Basic Economy Available Travel Dates: Oct. 10, 2025 to Oct. 29, 2025 ___________________________________ Meeting City: Spokane, Washington (Alternate Airport: Pasco, WA) Please refer to Baggage policies | Delta Air Lines, before traveling. Visit www.Delta.com or call Conferences and Events® at 800-328-1111 (Mon–Fri, 8:00 am – 6:30 pm EST) refer to Meeting Event Code: NM4NT. No service fee applies when booking via the Delta reservation phone number.
Fly with Southwest and take advantage of special RETA National Conference rates! Southwest Discounted Fare: 5% - Most Published Fares Available Travel Dates: Oct. 12, 2025 to Oct. 27, 2025 ___________________________________ Meeting City: Spokane, WA Please refer to Baggage policies | South west Airlines, before traveling Visit SWABIZ® www.swabiz.com to book Southwest Airlines. To use your Discount Code, input the Discount Code when searching for flights. The discount will be applied to any applicable flights.
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SOCIAL AND NETWORKING EVENTS MADE FOR YOU!
Everyone’s welcome—let the late-night fun begin! Co-Sponsored by: Dorin USA & Mayekawa
Monday, Oct. 20 | 5:10 – 6 pm WiNR (Women in Natural Refrigeration) Networking Event (No additional fee,
Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 12–2 pm RETA Business Meeting & Lunch (No additional fee; preregistration is required) Join us for the RETA Business Meeting—a key gathering where members come together to hear important organizational updates, review strategic initiatives, and help shape the future of RETA. This is your opportunity to stay informed, get involved, and make your voice heard as we continue to advance excellence in industrial refrigeration. All members are encouraged to attend and participate in this essential part of the RETA National Conference. Sponsored by: ISOtherm
preregistration is requested; All persons welcome)
Connect, inspire, and empower at the Women in Natural Refrigeration (WiNR) Networking Event. This special event brings together professionals from across the industry to share experiences, build meaningful connections, and celebrate their contributions to natural refrigeration. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, join us for an evening of conversation, camaraderie, and commu nity in a welcoming and supportive environment. All are welcome to attend! Co-Sponsored by: General Refrigeration, Industrial Refrigeration Services, & Guentner Monday, Oct. 20 | 6–9 pm Monday Night Out Pacific Northwest Wonderland (No additional fee, preregistration is requested) The RETA Pacific Northwest Wonderland is a celebration of the region’s rustic charm and rich culture. Enjoy samplings of the Pacific Northwest’s finest craft beers and wines, savor locally inspired cuisine, and experience the thrill of axe throwing in a lively, outdoor-inspired setting. With cozy fire pits to gather around and tales of Bigfoot echoing through the pines, this event brings the spirit of the Northwest to life—blending adventure, flavor, and folklore into one unforgettable evening. Co-Sponsored by: Risk Management Professionals & Guentner
Wednesday, Oct. 22 | 5:30 – 7:30 pm RETA Rumble & Pub Style Quiz (No additional fee; All persons welcome) Get ready for the RETA Rumble — a high-energy, pub-style quiz showdown! Test your knowledge on Industrial Refrigeration, RETA history, local lore, general trivia, and even a few curveballs about our legendary sponsor, Arlie Farley. Grab your friends, enjoy some laughs, and compete for bragging rights and awesome prizes. It’s trivia night, RETA-style—don’t miss it! Sponsored by: Farley’s Frigeration Wednesday, Oct. 22 | 7:40 – 8:20 pm First Timers Reception (No additional fee; First Timers welcome) New to RETA? Join us at the First Timers Reception—a warm, welcoming event designed to help you make connections and feel right at home. Meet fellow first-time attendees, network with RETA leaders, and get the inside scoop on how to make the most of your conference exper- ience. We’re excited to have you on board! Sponsored by: Sponsorship Opportunities Available Thursday, Oct. 23 | 5:40 – 6:20 pm Chapter Leader’s Reception (Free, preregistration is required; on-site) Looking to connect with other RETA Chapters? Or are you curious to join a
Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 5 – 8:30 pm Exhibit Hall Opening Reception Explore over 100 Industrial Refrigeration exhibitors all in one place! Network with industry leaders, discover the latest innovations, and enjoy snacks and a beverage as you peruse the show floor. Sponsored by: Evapco & Kuhlman
Tuesday, Oct. 21 – Thursday, Oct. 23 | 9 – 11:59 pm RETA After Hours Lounge
(No additional fee; All persons welcome) Keep the good times rolling at the RETA After Hours Lounge! Unwind with karaoke, games, and plenty of laughs in a laid-back, fun-filled atmosphere. Whether you're belt ing out your favorite tune or challenging a friend to a game, it’s the perfect way to end your conference day on a high note.
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EXHIBITOR & SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES If you are still considering a booth or sponsorship this year, don’t wait! We still have a few options to participate in the RETA 2025 National Conference! Become an exhibitor and sponsor today! Review Exhibitor, Sponsorship and Branding Opportunities online at www.reta.com or contact Stephanie Date at RETA HQ today at 541-497-2955 or stephanie@reta.org. EXHIBITOR/OPEN HALL HOURS Monday, Oct. 20 Exhibitor Move-In: 8 am-6 pm Hall A 12 pm-6 pm Hall B Tuesday, Oct. 21 Exhibitor Move-In: 8 am-4 pm Exhibit Hall Opening Reception: 5-8:30 pm Wednesday, Oct. 22 Exhibit Hall Open/Lunch: 12-2:50 pm Exhibitor Free Time: 5:20 pm Thursday, Oct. 23 Exhibit Hall Open/Lunch: 12-3:30 pm Friday, Oct. 24 Exhibit Hall Open/Breakfast: 7-10 am Exhibit Move-Out: 10 am-6 pm National Conference! Our sponsors are what make the RETA National Conference a success! We hope that you will continue to be a part of our conference this year as a sponsor, exhibitor, or both. Exposure is everything! • Meal Branding • Sponsored Items • Gift Cards • Big Ticket Items • Networking & Special Events • Media & A/V Advertisement Options • Hot Point & Visibility Options • Custom Sponsorships Explore 2025 Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities at https://reta.com/ page/2025-conference-become-exhibi tor-sponsor . Please email stephanie@ reta.org or call 541-497-2955. RETA 2025 BRANDING OPPORTUNITY: There is still room for you at the 2025 RETA
chapter? Maybe you’re considering starting a chapter in your area. No matter what your reason, this is your chance to connect and ask questions. Sponsored by: Farley’s Frigeration
Thursday, Oct. 23 | 6:30 – 7 pm Mix ‘n Mingle
(No additional fee; All persons welcome) Kick off Awards Night in style at the RETA Mix ‘n Mingle! This pre-event cocktail hour is the perfect chance to connect, relax, and raise a glass before the evening’s celebra tion of industry excellence begins. Mingle with friends and colleagues as we gear up to honor the best in the business! Sponsored by: Parker Refrigeration
Kim Snowden Award, we’ll honor excel lence in leadership, education, service, and chapter achievements. Recognitions include the Venemann, Hallowell, and King Awards, among others, plus the 30 Under 30 and top Exhibitor honors. Don’t miss this unforgettable night as we shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond for RETA and the profession. Sponsored by: SCS Engineers & Cold Core Group
Thursday, Oct. 23 | 7 – 9 pm Awards Night
(No additional fee; All persons welcome) Join us for the RETA Awards Night—an inspiring evening dedicated to celebrating the individuals and chapters that elevate the industrial refrigeration industry. From the prestigious Glenn W. Smith Lifetime Achievement Award to the empowering
Friday, Oct. 24 | 1 – 2 pm Attendee Big Ticket Drawing (Must be present to win!)
Sponsored by: Camco Lubricants, Mole Master Services, RETA, Sponsorship Opportunities Available
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SPOUSE & GUEST PROGRAM Whether you stay in style at the elegant Davenport Grand Hotel, where luxury meets comfort with breathtaking views of the city, or at the welcoming DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane, known for its warm hospitality and convenient location to the Spokane Convention Center, you will be at the heart of RETA 2025. Both hotels offer a perfect base to explore the city's boutique shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries. The RETA National Conference is a fabulous opportunity to work and play. If your spouse or companion can join you in Spokane, Washington, you may want to consider this very special program for them. *A spouse or companion may only attend the program as a partner of a registered attendee. During the registration process, you will be presented with the procedure for adding your spouse or companion as part of your registration. Our guest program includes an exclusive RETA Spice schedule of events with an array of activities and off-site adventures.
Spouse/Guest Package: $395 • Exclusive RETA Spice Gift Bag • Pacific Northwest Wonderland Monday Night Out • Daily Continental Breakfast & Buffet Lunch • Spice Trivia Game • Exhibit Hall Opening Reception
• RETA After Hours Lounge • Mix n Mingle Reception • Awards Night • Day Trip to into Spokane ($55 fee) • Continental Breakfast
• Short walk to/from Davenport Grand Spice Lounge homebase • Lunch – Twigs Bistro • River Park Square Mall Shopping • Polka Dot Pottery • Skyride At Riverfront Spokane • Creativity & Crafting Activities • Games & Prizes • Comradery & friendship For more information or to register for the Spouse/Guest Program, please visit https://reta.com/page/2025-conference-guest-program.
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2025 NATIONAL CONFERENCE SPONSORS
Triple Diamond
Diamond
Double Platinum
Titanium
Platinum
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RETA NEWS
RETA-RSES EXPANDS LEADERSHIP, REVIVES TECH REPORTS, AND STRENGTHENS INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
Blue Book, an annual anthology featuring writing from high school literary magazines, newspapers and individual students. There, she organized projects, resolved operation al challenges; managed extensive outreach to high school contacts; and curated a special section for the publication titled “Defining a New Generation.”This section highlighted showcased high school creative writing work that encapsulated the identity and struggles of Gen Z. As RETA and RSES continue to develop, announcements will be made to the members, the industry and the press. Chantel Schaumburg can be reached at chantell@reta.org. Kali Grigorica can be reached at kali@reta.org. Terry McIver, email tmciver@rses.org or call 800-297-5660 x4021. Allie Dulabaum is available at 800-297-5660 x4032 or adulabaum@rses. org. For more information, visit www.rses. org or www.reta.org. RETA Tech Reports Making a Comeback The RETA-RSES Publishing Committee has been busy obtaining and writing content that is important for its membership, and we are happy to report that more content is on the way…in the form of a Tech Report! The RETA Tech Report is a revered series originally developed for distribution to RETA Members four times a year. Frequency of publication has diminished as the world got busier, but we are working to re-establish more consistency with their release. Archives are available online starting from 1999 through to 2019, and soon an interesting discussion on an interesting setup for liquid make-up brought to us by Past RETA President Todd Metzger. Keep an eye on your inboxes for its release. It will additionally be added to the archives
for your convenience upon publishing. Want to contribute? Contact Vern Sander son at Vern.Sanderson@Schwans.com RETA-RSES Pipeline for Chapter Officers Now Available Are you a Chapter Officer seeking some support from other Officers? Look no further than the re-established RETA-RSES Pipeline. This is a monthly eNewsletter created specifically for Chapter Officers. In addition to tips and tricks for Chapter meeting development and management from HQ, the newsletter offers a peek at how other Chapter Officers are putting together their monthly programs. For more information, Contact Dan Denton at dan@reta.org or Brenden Lurie at blurie@rses.org. Upcoming RSES Technical Webinars Did you know RETA Members can earn PDHs for attending the live RSES Technical Webinars. Launched in 2013, these webinars provide a monthly PDH-earning event that is available to RETA and RSES Members. Attendees of the live session will earn a certificate of completion good for one (1) con- tinuing education hour, which equates to one (1) professional development hour (PDH). Webinars are typically scheduled the fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. Eastern of each month, unless there is a holiday. For the latest updates on sessions, visit rses.org, navigate to News & Events and then the Industry Calendar. RETA HQ also will send invitations to you. Following is a list of upcoming sessions with more scheduling in the works: • June 25, 2025: “The Importance of Refrigerant Reclamation,” will be present ed by Brian Justice, of Hudson Technolo gies. Reclaimed refrigerants have near zero GWP, thereby reducing the carbon
RETA-RSES Welcome New Staff RETA HQ welcomes two additional staff members to its HQ office, Chantell Schaumburg and Kali Grigorica. Schaumburg brings 20 years of organiza tional support and fiscal accountability to her RETA role as Office/Finance Control Manager. In addition to finance manage ment, she has extensive experience in human resource functions, IT support, as well as strategic planning and analysis. In addition to streamlining and automating RETA’s accounting processes and proce dures, she will be working with staff at both RETA and RSES to better align both offices to financial policy and procedures. Grigorica will join as the Marketing/Com- munications Coordinator, working with both RETA and RSES and the Marketing Committee in an effort to co-brand and align the two namesakes’ missions into one unified message to its members, potential members and the world, at large. With nearly a decade of practice, she will bring her experi- ence managing projects and campaigns that support organizational needs and priorities to the HVAC-R industries. RSES HQ also welcomed B2B publications veteran Terry McIver to its editorial team. Former Contracting Business Editor-in Chief, McIver brings the business owner’s perspective into the Association world of HVACR, lending to RETA’s and RSES’s needs to promote continuing education and training to the individuals working for those owners. In addition, Allie Dulabaum, former Office Assistant for RSES, has been promoted to RSES Journal Assistant Editor. A recent DePaul University Graduate, she earned her Bachelor’s in English, with a Creative Writing concentration and a minor in Sociology. Her past work of passion was with the DePaul
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footprint of operating HVACR systems. By using reclaimed refrigerants, users are actively helping to combat unnecessary GHG refrigerant release. This presentation will explain the role and importance reclaimed refrigerants have, as mandated in the AIM Act. The transition to next generation refrigerants, including A2L’s, will also be covered, along with the importance of proper refrigerant recovery in the field. • July 23, 2025: “App-driven Airflow Forecasting,” will be presented by Chris Hughes, Director of Sales for the Energy Conservatory. This session will teach attendees a simple and accurate way to measure airflow through residential air handlers using app-driven technology in order to make quality decisions in the field. The app under discussion features “forecasting,” which allows techs to make decisions on what can improve airflow on the existing system or a future install using measurements taken on the original system in its current condition. • August 27, 2025: ““What Do the Symbols on Your Meter Mean?” will be presented
by Louise Kellar, National Training Manager for UEi Test Instruments. Come along as we take a tour of the meter dial! Louise will uncover the meaning behind every symbol, explore what they look like, where to use them and why they matter. Get ready to master the meter like never before! • Sept. 24, 2025: Louise Keller will join RSES again for the presentation “CO Awareness and How to Perform Combus tion Analysis.”This session will dive deep into the dangers of CO, the risks it poses to health and safety. Keller will also guide attendees through the essential steps of combustion analysis—how to use a combustion analyzer, generally accepted results and more. • Oct. 22, 2025: TBA • Nov. 19, 2025: “Part 2: Building Better Homes: A Guide to Energy Efficiency and Electrification,” will be presented by Bill Spohn, CEO and Owner of TruTech Tools Ltd. During this session, Spohn will continue his road traveled to design and live in a net-zero. He has worked with top
experts and contractors to advance energy-efficient homes and will offer practical insights into electrification, energy use, and how contractors and homeowners can responsibly plan for a healthier, more efficient future. Part 1 of this webinar aired in February 2025 and is available in the RSES Webinar Archives. • Dec. 17, 2025: ““Refrigerants: An Ever-changing Picture,” will be presented by Scott Melton, Education Coordinator, RETA-RSES. This session will take a look at the history of refrigerant changes as it relates to how the industry can plan for the future. All refrigerants will be discussed, but natural refrigerants will be a heavy focus. This presentation will have something for every level of understand ing and is at the heart of everything our industry does. RETA-RSES is still looking for presenters! If you are interested in presenting a topic, please contact Lori Schiavo, lschiavo@rses. org or 800-297-5660. Webinar sponsorship opportunities are also available.
CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS & MODERATORS: Join our fabulous team of volunteers at the RETA 2025 National Conference. We have several volunteer opportunities with flexible schedules for any level of participation. RETA volunteers directly impact the success of the national conference. No experience necessary. Please contact
Stephanie at stephanie@reta.org or 541-497-2955 for more information.
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I started my refrigeration journey in 2008 sweeping floors in a machine room. I was a maintenance mechanic who was trying to learn refrigeration. I was taking any opportunity I had to get close to the equipment and learn from the wealth of knowledge the senior refrigeration guys possessed, as they had been doing refrigeration nearly as long as I had been alive. I got my hands on some old refrigeration books and other random material online and just began to study and learn. Fast forward a couple of years when an opening became available to become a refrigeration operator. I immediately jumped at the chance and was offered the position. I immersed myself in learning the system and learning from my senior refrigeration technicians. Through all of this, I had no idea what RETA was or what it offered. I may have come across some RETA training material, but nothing that I can recall. I just keep reading, observing and learning everything I could. So now, let us fast forward to 2011: my company wanted to get me more formal training and sent me out to a learning institute where I learned from industry experts. After a weeklong immersive course, I took and passed my CARO exam. I was thrilled. Still, RETA did not mean much to me at the time. I took my new certificate back to my company and kept reading, observing and learning. Soon after passing my CARO, I ordered RETA books I & II and found they were extremely informative. I learned more in the short time of studying those books than I had in all the previous years combined trying to learn on my own. After speaking with my company and justifying the value RETA courses provided, I obtained RETA’s online course catalog. I proceeded to get certifications in Operator I, II, III, & IV. I took basic electricity classes and every other course that RETA offered. The knowledge I gained was outstanding. But I still did not know the full reach and impact of RETA. I was just going through the motions to learn. I slowly began to transition from an operator to management, more specifically to Process Safety Management. Anyone who knows PSM knows there is a whole host of information and regulations you must learn to properly manage a PSM program. I shifted my attention to PSM and placed RETA on the back burner. I spent several years managing PSM programs while continuing to hone my craft and expand my knowledge on codes and regulations. In 2023, I decided I wanted to get my CIRO certification. So, I studied hard, took a review course and passed. Through this experience I realized how much I enjoyed the technical side of refrigeration. It was this year I decided I was going to go to my first RETA Conference. Up to this point, RETA had meant very little to me. I had been in the industry for nearly 15 years and knew RETA offered great training
DISCOVERING RETA ONE MEMBER’S JOURNEY Have you ever been a part of something for a long time, but never truly felt a part of it; that feeling of simply going through the motions? It is a weird feeling and one that recently happened to me.
Brian Tiemeier Process Safety Manager Darling Ingredients
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material, but that was all I knew. But some- thing inside pushed me to go to the conference and learn more. While attending my first RETA conference in 2023 in Jacksonville, FL, I was blown away. The conference far exceeded my expecta tions. The venue was amazing. There were vendors there from every corner of the refrigeration world which provided a great opportunity to get in touch and speak to them and make that connection. But above all, the most important thing the conference offered was knowledge. From the RETA HQ staff to committee members to presenters and even to just random attendees, the people and the knowledge at the RETA conference was immeasurable. I felt like I did back in 2008, just hanging on every word my senior technicians were talking about. The wealth of knowledge I experienced and gained from my first conference experience I cannot truly express in words. I will simply say that it was amazing. I felt at home at the conference; like I was a part of something, and I felt this is where I belong. I went on to donate to the 21 st
Century Club out of my own pocket to help provide RETA training material to the industry. I joined RETA’s education and publication committees as a way to try and give back to our community. Following the conference, I had the pleasure of reviewing and updating one of RETA’s training books. I think we have all worked with that one person in our career that had all this know- ledge but never shared it with anyone. Maybe it was out of fear, maybe it was out of spite, who knows. That is not who I am, and that is not how any of the Members I met at the RETA Conference were. The RETA commu nity is a wonderful group where everyone is happy to share their knowledge, experi ences and stories with each other to all grow together. So, after a great experience in 2023, what do you think I did this year? That’s right, I made it back to the 2024 RETA Conference in Grapevine, TX. Last year’s conference exceeded my expectations, which I thought would not be able to happen. Well RETA proved me wrong and the 2024 Conference was even better. The venue was stunning,
the vendors were great, and the relation ships built at the conference are worth their weight in gold. I am so glad that I found RETA and have found a sense of belonging that I did not have before. I love being able to give back to a community that has given my family and me so much over the years. Looking back, I think to myself, “how have I never been to a conference throughout my career?”There were many factors at play at the time. At the end of the day, I cannot change the past, but I can look to the future, where I see myself attending a lot of RETA Conferences. You should make this a priority for your future, too! I look forward to making new connections with the fantastic members of our refrigera tion community, and I hope to see you at a future RETA event soon. Brian Tiemeier Process Safety Manager Darling Ingredients
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CODES & STANDARDS, PART FOUR OF MANY: REFRIGERATION STANDARDS & CODES
I n February 1968, a Tentative Interim Amendment (TIA) #146 was released, amending the National Electric Code (NEC) by adding ammonia to the list of Group D Hazardous Atmospheres. This TIA became an immediate provision of the 1968 NEC and was automatically included in the 1971 NEC provisions. This TIA forced all ammonia refrigeration machinery rooms to be treated as hazardous, or classified locations, requiring explosion proof equipment and intrinsically safe wiring methods. This would burden ammonia refrigeration systems with a significant cost penalty and place them at a severe disadvantage over other, refrigerants, particularly synthetic. During the 1971 development cycle for the NEC, two proposals were submitted in attempts to “undo the damage,” so to speak. The Compressed Gas Association (CGA) submitted Proposal #6 to delete ammonia from Group D outright. This proposal was rejected by the NEC Tech- nical Committee. The Air-Conditioning
and Refrigeration Institute (ARI)—now known as The Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI)—sub mitted Proposal #9, which attempted to exclude closed-circuit ammonia refrigera tion systems from the Group D classifica tion. The committee did not accept this change outright but held it for further consideration. Ultimately, the NEC Technical Committee approved a modification to the 1971 NEC that helped the ammonia refrigeration industry by adding a reference for ammonia refrigeration to be classified in accordance with ANSI B9.1, which was the predeces sor of American Society of Heating, Re- frigerating and Air-Conditioning Engi neers (ASHRAE) Standard 15. While this amendment helped to solidify ammonia refrigeration as the predominant form of industrial refrigeration, leaders in the industry realized that a dedicated lobbying group was needed to support the industry’s interests, rather than rely on broader, com- pressed gas or refrigeration associations.
In the last issue, I presented a synopsis of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers’ (ASME) B31.5, which is the “Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components” code. In this issue, I will discuss the creation of the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) and the history behind its suite of
standards for ammonia refrigeration systems.
By Bill Lape, CIRO, CRST
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