Ron Prager is a mechanical engineer and a certified HVAC technician, and is currently the Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer of Brinco Mechanical Management Services, Inc. He is an industry expert with over 40 years of experience in the area of commercial HVAC repair, maintenance, and replacement. During Ron’s career, he has been responsible for the supervision of thousands of replacement projects and repairs. He has authored numerous published magazine articles and has developed more than 15 technical presentations for ConnexFM over the past 24 years. Ron is a past PRSM board member and past co-chair of the education and awards committees. He was also the recipient of the 2009 PRSM Vendor of the Year Award, the 2008 Service Excellence Award, and the 2024 ConnexFM Lawrence Whelan Lifetime Achievement Award.

Thomas Pantin is the owner of Blue Northern Services LLC, with over 33 years of experience in the HVAC industry. Thomas is recognized on the national level with Facility Managers of his overall knowledge of HVAC, controls, air and water balancing, along with the ability to troubleshoot and solve the most difficult challenges.

Thomas started out as a helper, then a Service Technician, Service Manager and is now the Owner of Blue Northern Services LLC, holding a class A license in the State of Texas.
Thomas has factory training and is certified by the top HVAC manufacturers. He continues to enjoy educating Facility Managers with a hands-on approach in his presentations.
In 2002 Blue Northern was awarded Vendor and Educator of the year at the ConnexFM's National Convention.

Jose Garcia is a certified HVAC tech with over 25 years of experience. He began his career as an apprentice and through hard work, technical expertise and leadership skills ultimately earned the role of service manager. In his current role he oversees day to day operations managing everything from dispatch to field service execution. Leading a team of 20 employees across Houston, San Antonio and Austin, ensuring high standards of performance and customer satisfaction. He is extremely passionate about mentoring the next generation on service techs, taking pride in helping his team grow professionally and encouraging them to advance in their careers. His leadership style emphasizes integrity, accountability and continued education. His hands on experience and industry knowledge make him invaluable to both his team and clients.

Ken Pantin is an established HVAC industry expert and veteran with decades of hands-on experience in commercial air conditioning, mechanical systems, and facility operations. He is the founder of Blue Northern Air Conditioning, where he has built a reputation for delivering practical solutions, technical expertise, and dependable service across complex HVAC environments. Known for his real-world approach to training and problem-solving, Ken specializes in commercial HVAC systems, troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and operational efficiency, helping facility professionals better understand and manage critical building systems.

Curt Picard is a 45+ year veteran in the HVAC industry and Vice President of Strategic Asset Management at Brinco Mechanical Management Services, Inc.  Prior to joining Brinco in early 2011, Curt spent 21 years at Lennox Industries including the last 14 years with them as the National Account Manager covering the Northeast.  He is a former member and served on the Board of Directors for the ACCA Greater NY Chapter.  Currently, he is an active member of Connex FM (formerly PRSM) where he is a charter member, served on the Board of Directors, and received the Vendor of the Year Award in 2013.  He has presented numerous HVAC educational sessions throughout his 21-year membership with the organization.