In the competitive world of HVAC contracting, success is not solely about installing heating and cooling systems; it’s about delivering measurable comfort, efficiency, and reliability to customers.
For Keith Ouimette, Chief Operating Officer of Cardinal Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electric in Sun Prairie, WI, this philosophy has been the driving force behind the company’s evolution.
Through strategic training initiatives, a commitment to High-performance HVAC™ practices, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, Cardinal Heating has set itself apart in an industry often resistant to change.
A Legacy Built on Dedication and Hard Work
The year was 1984 and it was auspicious for many reasons. It was the year that Apple Computer ran its first promotional television ad during the Superbowl and changed everything. For us rock-n-rollers out there, it was also the year that Bruce Springsteen released his Born in the U.S.A album.
Let’s face it, those were just a few good things that happened in a year that was full of bad news.
Another good news story is that in 1984, Keith Ouimette’s father, Rick, founded Cardinal Heating in Sun Prairie as a small family-owned operation run out of their home. Sun Prairie is located just east of Madison, WI and is known as being the birthplace of artist Georgia O’Keeffe.
“My father worked for a couple of other heating companies before deciding to go out on his own,” Keith recalls. “He saw a need for a company that prioritized quality and service above all else.” With a single van and dedication to hard work, Rick laid the foundation for what would become one of the most respected HVAC businesses in the region.
Keith and his brother, Craig, grew up immersed in the business. “We were out there as kids, passing out flyers and helping with odd jobs,” Keith says. “It was a family effort from the start.” Over the years, Cardinal Heating expanded, eventually purchasing its first office building in 1991, a milestone that signified its growth and stability.
Investing in People: Training and Certification
One of the key differentiators for Cardinal is its emphasis on training and continuous education. “We’ve always been thirsty for more knowledge,” Keith states.
The company is a strong proponent of National Comfort Institute (NCI) certification and other industry-leading training programs.
“It’s something we value immensely because it ensures that our technicians are always improving and staying ahead of the curve.”
Cardinal Heating took its commitment to training to the next level by establishing Cardinal University, a five-month internal training program designed to produce highly skilled technicians.
“We found that recruiting alone wasn’t enough to keep up with our growth,” Keith explains. “We needed a structured program to develop talent from within.”
The results speak for themselves—today, approximately 50% of the company’s HVAC technicians and installers have come through the program.
Keith believes that investing in people is the key to long-term success. “We’re not just hiring employees; we’re cultivating professionals who are committed to the trade,” he says.
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