When you think of an HVAC conference, words like “technical,” “innovation,” and “industry trends” probably come to mind. And while my recent trip to Orlando, Florida, for two major HVAC events was filled with all those things, what stood out most was something far more unexpected: a moment of pure trust and beauty by a lake.
I attended two very different conferences while in Orlando. The HVACR School Symposium was deeply technical, with discussions on carbon monoxide, building science, boilers, and duct design. Meanwhile, AHR Expo was massive, a showcase of cutting-edge innovations from manufacturers across the industry. Both were fascinating, but amidst all the numbers and technology, I found a moment that reminded me of something even more fundamental: human connection and trust.
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A few years ago, while planning a trip to Namibia, my trusty Nikon D200 finally became obsolete, no longer compatible with my editing software. It was going to be an Epic Adventure So, I treated myself to a Nikon D500, a camera favored by wildlife and sports photographers. On this trip, I decided to bring it along—and I’m so glad I did.
The HVACR School Symposium took place in Ocoee, Florida, near a picturesque lake filled with wild waterfowl. During a lunch break, I stumbled upon a young man feeding the birds by hand. What happened next was mesmerizing.
A bird hovered mid-flight, gracefully taking crumbs from his palm. I captured the moment with my camera, and in that frozen frame, the bird looked like an angel descending from heaven.
It wasn’t just about the perfect shot. It was about what that moment represented: mutual trust. The bird trusted the man. The man trusted the bird. No fear, just respect.
That moment made me think about trust in my own business. Customers trust us to do excellent work, to make their homes comfortable and safe. In return, we trust them to communicate their needs, to let us know when something isn’t right, and to allow us the opportunity to fix it.
In an industry that can often feel transactional, trust is everything. It’s what builds long-term relationships. And sometimes, we need quiet moments—like a bird taking food from a stranger—to remind us of that.
Whenever I travel, I make time for what I call “side quests”—small, unexpected adventures that enrich the experience. This time, I visited Bok Tower Gardens, home to a stunning Carillon Tower made of pink marble, surrounded by lush, landscaped gardens filled with vibrant flowers, oak trees, and winding paths that invite quiet reflection.
Edward Bok, the man behind the tower, was a visionary. As the editor of Ladies’ Home Journal, he was a champion of women’s rights, reproductive rights, and public health initiatives. His publication was one of the first to openly discuss birth control, and he was dedicated to improving the lives of women through education and progressive policies.
Bok also had a deep passion for nature and conservation, which led him to establish Bok Tower Gardens on the highest point in Florida. The gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring multiple microclimates that support a diverse range of plant life. From lush ferns and azaleas in the shaded areas to vibrant sun-loving flowers in the open meadows, the gardens provide a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors seeking peace and inspiration.
A carillon is a series of bells played like an organ, creating an ethereal sound that resonates through the gardens. I was lucky enough to attend a live performance and even meet the musician. Sitting in the gardens, surrounded by music and nature, I was reminded of the power of human creativity and inspiration.
Edward Bok’s vision was to create something beautiful and uplifting. And even decades later, his creation continues to touch hearts. It’s a testament to how one inspired idea can leave a lasting impact.
My side quest didn’t stop there. I also took a kayaking trip at Silver Springs, a breathtaking natural spring known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. As I paddled through the serene waterways, I was lucky enough to spot gentle manatees gliding beneath my kayak—a truly unforgettable experience. The peacefulness of the springs, combined with the awe of seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, reinforced my belief that taking time to immerse in nature is just as valuable as attending conferences and business meetings.
As I write this, there’s snow on the ground, but spring is just around the corner. It’s a reminder that no matter how cold or dark things feel, warmth and renewal are always on the way.
If you’re in Westchester, Dutchess, or Putnam County, now is the perfect time to schedule your HVAC maintenance and tune-up before the weather shifts.
So as we move into this new season, I encourage you to seek out the beauty around you—whether it’s in a small moment of trust, an inspiring piece of art, or the simple joy of feeling the first warm breeze of spring.
And of course… don’t forget to book your spring HVAC tune-up! (I had to throw that in.)
Looking forward to seeing you soon,
Kimberly Sevilla
Shelter Air
“No Ordinary HVAC Company”
