Norman Asbjornson, founder of AAON, built the Tulsa-based company into one of America’s most successful HVAC manufacturers by focusing on semi-custom, high-performance heating and cooling systems for commercial buildings. After founding AAON in 1988 and taking it public three years later, he led the company for decades, turning it into a major force in energy-efficient climate control. Known for disciplined growth and long-term ownership, Asbjornson stands out as one of the most successful self-made industrial entrepreneurs in the HVAC sector.

Albert H. Nahmad, founder, chairman, and CEO of Watsco, has spent more than five decades building the company into North America’s largest distributor of air-conditioning, heating, and refrigeration equipment and parts. Since taking control in 1972, Nahmad helped transform Watsco from a modest manufacturer into a dominant HVAC/R distribution platform serving thousands of contractors through an expanding network of locations, joint ventures, and acquisitions. Known for disciplined capital allocation, long-term value creation, and steady operational execution, he has made Watsco one of the most successful compounders in industrial distribution.

He Xiangjian is a prominent Chinese businessman, known for founding Midea Group, one of the world's largest manufacturers of electrical appliances. With a keen eye for innovation and expansion, He Xiangjian has made significant contributions to the global appliance industry.