Our People

Dave has been with CSI for 24 years. He enjoys accomplishing the impossible. “I like to help a customer complete a difficult, overwhelming project that looked like it couldn’t be done,” he says. A graduate of Wittenberg University with a Bachelor of Arts in business administration and East Asian studies, David has also attended ASHRAE seminars, received extensive training from Mitsubishi and completed NHRAW executive training. “We’re not just selling widgets,” Dave notes. “We have chosen to focus on the support and technical background that our employees offer. We offer on-site expertise and all the decisions are made here.”

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

My favorite thing about working at CSI is the day to day interaction with our customers and employees. Our business is, and always will be, a relationship business. I never intend to be a ‘hands-off owner’, the only way I know how to manage is to be completely engaged.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

It’s said to be in my blood. I’m the 4^th generation involved in HVAC, with roots going back to 1905…First experience was age 13 working summers at an HVAC manufacturer representative doing thing like cutting grass, shipments, unloading trucks, etc. By 16, summers included deliveries, and service tech ride-alongs. Throughout college, I worked a wider variety of jobs including inside-sales, take-off, and just ‘carrying Dad’s briefcase’….all of this HVAC experience semi-prepared me for my emersion into the world of Comfort Supply, only 10 days after graduating from college.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my employees grow as people and accomplish things they never thought they could. Our people are our most valuable asset and I believe it’s a testament to the company and our culture. Our employees are very highly regarded in the industry and we have very little turnover, our average employee has 8-10 years of Comfort Supply, Inc. experience.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I’m kind of obsessed with keeping up on the latest HVAC trends and technologies; I feel this is one of my primary jobs. I am always looking for the next product or system that will enhance our market position. We are well known within the industry as innovators who can rapidly and effectively bring new and innovative HVAC products to our market. I use Google Alerts, AHR Expos, Japan Air-Conditioning News (JARN), and European HVAC publications to scourer the world for new products and systems. I am also planning and looking forward to attending a major European HVAC trade show in 2012.

What drives you, professionally?

What drives me is the ability to affect change at a level that matters most – the local and regional levels! We don’t necessarily want to be the biggest, we just want to be the best in markets we serve. We love the fact that we control our own destiny – we have no regional or national guidelines to follow. If we want/have to change a direction or strategy, we can (and have!) change at a moment’s notice.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

The future of the HVAC industry is extremely bright! As the cost of energy continues to rise, homeowners and businesses will continue to seek and demand HVAC systems that lower utility costs. As the United States population ages, there are also more opportunities for upgrades to HVAC systems based on efficiency and comfort.

Bob has worked at CSI for twelve years, but never tires of the variety of projects. “The diverse array of projects we get involved with and the corresponding products used on them means there is always something new to learn and convey to our customers,” he notes. Bob appreciates the family atmosphere and the individual attention given to employees, customers, and vendors. “We provide a variety of approaches to design solutions to let the customer make a wise and educated decision,” he adds. He specializes in emerging technologies like hydronic heating, radiant floor heating, snow melt applications and is a Radiant Panel Association Certified Designer and Installer. One of his greatest challenges has been designing a multiple-zone radiant heat and snowmelt system using a high efficiency boiler and state of the art radiant floor installation methods. In his spare time, Bob enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, bowling and golfing. Bob has a son and two daughters with his wife Karen.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I have been with CSI for 12 years. My favorite part about working here is that I am able to help customers fulfill their dreams of efficient comfortable buildings by providing sound design advice.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I always wanted to sell “energy savings devices” and finally got my chance by selling air curtains (with Berner Intl) after being laid off as a maintenance foreman in the mill.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is the feedback and praise I receive from customer/building owners I have helped.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

For me, keeping up comes in many forms: I am always reading trade books and magazine publications, attending a variety of trade shows and seminars, and keeping up to date on supplier notices. I also try to keep my ear to the ground by having in-depth conversations with customers as well as making job-site visits.

What drives you, professionally?

I am driven by a desire to excel, and also become better at assisting my customers. My family and friends also motivate me to be the best I can be.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

I see continued growth in high efficient product sales and applications. Many aspects of HVAC shine with efficiency and have comfortable by-products as features. The product groups I think will only continue to grow include: VRF, ductless hyper-heat, Radiant, Geothermal, IAQ, and solar.

Don specializes in start up and trouble shooting of all the products sold by CSI. He joined the company in 2001 and has added to his technical school training with a wide variety of continuing education opportunities. He is a member of the Radiant Panel association and a certified installer and designer. He has participated in “Train the Trainer” seminars as well as Mitsubishi, Comfortech, Texmar, Buderus, ICP and Rehau product training. “The training afforded to me has been limitless, and has let me grow into my position within the company,” he explains. Don’s greatest installation challenge since joining CSI was coordinating, designing and helping to install a 5000 sq ft snow melting system over one hot summer. “We do our best to provide customers with the right product for the application and support that idea thru the sale and installation of the product,” he notes.  “We don’t shy away from new challenges.” With our commitment to green and innovative products, we can work together with our customers to reduce greenhouse gases to slow global warming while remaining profitable,” Don adds. In his personal life, Don is a builder, too. He is renovating a century home and raising four children with his wife Amelia. He also enjoys running.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I love the family first attitude. Having a President that holds strong family values allows me to be able stay home with one of my sick children or attend a school function if needed without worry. We’re also like our own family here at CSI.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

A friend of mine was working the field; he recommended I look into the tech school he had attended. I arranged for a tour of the school and actually ended up enrolling that same day.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is helping customers solve their technical issues. When I talk a customer through an issue with a product and resolve the issue fast, it builds confidence with the customer and helps build an even stronger relationship.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

CSI is dedicated to training. I have taken every training course offered to me, and I jump at every opportunity to learn more. Working in the field with our customers helps me stay current on all of our products. Most wholesalers do not offer field-support, so we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve by offering services like this as well as training seminars.

What drives you, professionally?

I pride myself on fast follow-up and excellent customer service. I want people to know they are dealing with a person that not only wants to help them solve an issue, but one that also cares.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

As global warming increases, we will have more extreme weather. Due to that fact, I see growth in the HVAC industry for years to come. I also feel the equipment will continue to become more sophisticated and require a higher level technician to install and service the product.

Jeff joined the CSI Sales team in April 2010. He brings over 30 years of experience in various sales, sales support and customer service roles serving the HVAC industry. Jeff’s primary focus will be growing Comfort Supply’s residential equipment business, which includes the American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning, Mitsubishi Mr. Slim, Unico High Velocity Systems and Buderus Boilers product lines. You can contact Jeff at the office, on his cell 412 420 9493, or email at jwappler@comfortsupplypgh.com.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I started at CSI in April of 2010 so I’m relatively new and still learning a lot of things. For me the best part of working at CSI is the people, I really enjoy interacting daily with our customers, my co-workers and our vendors.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I went to technical school for HVAC and landed my first job in June 1977 with a company that did new home installations, that helped me learn how residential duct systems worked from there I moved into service which I enjoyed a lot. In 1981 I moved into sales with a Pittsburgh HVAC distributor until 2009.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

For me I enjoy helping my customers and bringing them solutions to situations they encounter every day. Thru the years I have enjoyed and been blessed in knowing a lot of truly great people. I’ve had the opportunity to do things and go places I never dreamed of when I first started in the business.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

Mostly reading trade publications and reading information from some of our more progressive vendors, there are so many changes our industry encounters every year if you don’t keep up you’re quickly left in the dust. Remember the old saying, there are those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened..  You need to stay on top of the changes.

What drives you, professionally?

I like to be creative and innovative, to come up with solutions and opportunities others are missing, not interested in or can’t understand, helping our company achieve its goals.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

Mitsubishi Mini Splits will take over the world!

Don joined CSI in 2004 and now has 8.5 years of HVAC of experience in the industry.  He has enhanced his experience with continuing education including attendance at the North American Training Academy and the Beaver County Area Vo -Tech School HVAC Course. He has also participated in HVAC classes through CSI and our product manufacturers. Don points to signing up a new dealer 100 miles away and servicing him like he was down the street as an example of the pride that CSI takes in its high level of service. He enjoys working at CSI because “My commitment and ideas truly mean something and that makes me want to give all I’ve got to make the company get better every day. I like working for a company that is family-oriented and still does business on a handshake.” Don loves the outdoors and hunting and fishing with his two sons as well as cheering them on in football and baseball.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I have been with CSI for 8.5 years and my favorite thing about working here is how much there is to learn. The technology is constantly changing and you must change with it. At CSI, we work through problems as a team if we have to. There is no problem that is too big for the CSI team to solve. We’re very lucky to have an owner that will get in the trenches and work with you. To see an owner working just as hard, if not harder than the rest to be the best in our industry is truly inspiring.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

Don Erb, CSI’s technical specialist, happens to be a close personal friend of mine for about 30 years. Don knew of my love for sales and he thought I would be a good fit to help the company grow. The industry was very new to me when I first came on board, but I learned quickly…and am still learning to this day!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is helping our contractors grow so that we can grow with them. Finding the right solution to a problem is also very rewarding…and don’t forget, I LOVE TO SELL!

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I try to keep up with the HVAC industry by reading the HVACR News and by trying to change with it and learn something new every day.

What drives you, professionally?

I am driven by my family. My family means the world to me, and their well-being ultimately drives everything I do. I also strive to learn and be better every day.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

I predict the future of the industry to be more technical and service driven. I also see much more of a demand for the most efficient solution to a problem, I think ductless technology is on its way to being a dominate force in the industry.

Justin joined the company in 2006. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and an Associate Degree in Marketing and Sales. He has also taken advantage of continuing education opportunities with City Multi Control, Service and Design Training. In describing the atmosphere at CSI, Justin says, “We don’t just sell ‘boxes.’ Our staff is highly trained and we work hand in hand with our customers all the way through the job. We assist with equipment selection, project design as well as providing installation service and user training….Every day brings something new and interesting to the workplace,” he adds. Justin can be described as a football fanatic and is a committed Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

My favorite thing about working at CSI is the family atmosphere we have here. We can be yelling and arguing one minute, and hugging it out the next.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I was given my start in the HVAC industry 6 years ago when I was hired by CSI.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing a project all the way through: from design, to bid, construction, start-up and then owner training. And in the end: providing the owner/customer with the perfect HVAC system.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I keep up with resources like The News, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, JARN, and many other online resources that allow me to access up-to-date industry information when I want and need it.

What drives you, professionally?

I am driven professionally by the need to provide the best solution(s) and customer service to our customers.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

I predict the HVAC industry will continue to grow because of more energy efficient (green) solutions that owners will see as a valid solution for their home/office/building.

Mike is our parts guru and technical service adviser; he calls himself a “lifer.” He has been with CSI for 23 years. He explains that service sets CSI apart. “We have vast knowledge of our products and we go out of our way to solve any problem that might happen.  That’s why our home and cell phone numbers are on our cards.” Mike specializes in locating hard-to-find parts and equipment and routinely delivers after hours and on holidays. He appreciates the fact that decision-making at CSI is streamlined. “There’s no complicated corporate structure. We do everything right here and go out of our way to take care of our customers.” He likes the family atmosphere at CSI, where co-workers appreciate his sense of humor and occasional practical joke. In his leisure time, Mike enjoys camping, fishing, bike riding and home improvement. He has three children and two granddaughters.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I fell into it by accident; I was working at Zaire’s department store and began as part-time help, working the night-shift at Zaire’s and putting in day-time hours at CSI. 23 years later and they haven’t told me to stop showing up!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I really enjoy learning new stuff about HVAC technologies.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

It will continue to grow and become much more high-tech.

The oldest son of Marci and David, Brendan has been involved with CSI since he was 13, beginning in the warehouse sweeping the floors. Much like David, by 16 he was running deliveries, operating forklifts and learning the basics of business and HVAC. Brendan was recently handling CSI’s marketing efforts in a part-time role, but has since joined the team full-time. Brendan notes, “I’m really happy to be an ‘official’ member of the CSI team…working with family can be tough at times, but I think it also adds to the reward of success.” Brendan has been instrumental in solidifying CSI’s presence on the web, creating a brand new website, Facebook page, and also a Twitter account (@CSIpgh). Brendan has attended multiple Social Media Marketing seminars and is also a common face at the various trade shows CSI participates in. In his free time, Brendan enjoys watching all Pittsburgh sports, and cheering on his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Brendan resides in Bridgeville with his girlfriend, Marybeth.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

Working with the team we have here is truly a pleasure. Everyone pitches in, working towards a common goal. I also love working with my Dad every day, he is an incredible business owner and one of the best minds in the industry.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I began at the bottom, sweeping floors in the warehouse. Over time, I started handling deliveries and other more involved tasks. After taking some time away from the HVAC industry, I approached my Dad about incorporating my marketing and IT skills into the family business.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I keep up with trends in the HVAC industry by subscribing to daily Google Alerts, reading industry publications such as JARN, The News, CS-E Magazine, HVACR Business, and ASHRAE’s weekly newsletter. I also keep a strong ear to the ground in terms of Social Media. I am constantly referring to my HVAC, VRF and other industry related feeds on Twitter, as well as keeping up with the industry on Facebook and LinkedIn as well.

What drives you, professionally?

I am driven by the constant need to better myself and succeed. What is good for this company is also good for me, helping it continue to grow and succeed is my number one goal.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

I predict a migration towards technology, on every front; from inventory automation, to Social Media and web marketing, and all the way through equipment standards, capabilities, and applications. As this shift to a more ‘tech-friendly’ environment becomes more real, we must shift with it. My favorite business quote is ‘Change is inevitable, progress is optional’ and I truly believe if you are not willing to adapt to the changes in your industry, you will get left behind.

Jonathan is the second-newest member of the CSI team. Working in our Inside Sales/Parts department, Jon is already proving to be a valuable asset to Comfort Supply.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I have only been with CSI for about a month, but I am already feeling right at home. I love the relaxed, family environment here, and also thrive on the ability to do something different every day.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I saw an opportunity in a growing, ever-changing field that allowed me to learn something new while still sticking to things I enjoy.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I love providing great customer service, I’m also enjoying the utilization of innovative technology in the industry. I’m looking forward to becoming a key member of the CSI team, and putting my skills to use wherever they are best served.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

As a newcomer to the industry, I’m currently trying to soak up as much as I can everyday I come to work. Working closely with other CSI employees gives me knowledge from individuals who have amazing experience in our field.

What drives you, professionally?

I am driven by the desire to be constantly learning, growing, and adapting while also helping others do the same.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

Much like Brendan, I predict a union between the ever-changing technology market and the consumers’ desire for HVAC products to be instant, effective, and efficient. All the while, pushing the limits of what HVAC can do.

Craig joins CSI out of retirement, having over 30 years of HVAC experience. Craig is very knowledgeable on the entire American Standard product line and we are extremely happy to add him to our team.

Dave Heckler, President, speaks very highly of Mr. McCasland, “I’m happy about bringing Craig onto the CSI team, his knowledge and experience are a great value and I’m looking forward to seeing his talents in action.”

Craig will be working in our outside sales department; stretching the legs and hitting the trails, Craig’s focus will be on making contact and reaching out to our dealers in need of some face time with a CSI sales team representative. Craig can be reached by email at CraigMcCasland@att.net or by phone at 412-402-8105.

Mike Ferens serves as our Warehouse Manager. In charge of all warehouse employees, Mike makes sure things are flowing smoothly ‘out back’. Mike resides in Houston, PA with his wife and son. He enjoys spending his days off working on his father’s farm. Mike’s work ethic and dedication to CSI make him an inspiration to us all.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I have been with CSI for just over a year. I love the people, they are great! I also love that there is something different to learn everyday.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

I got into the industry ‘by accident’. I was unemployed at the time, and landed an HVAC job through a temp agency. The rest, they say, is history.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is getting the job done, and doing it right.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I keep up by trying to take everything I can from the schools I am able to attend here at CSI. We have excellent training classes on our wide-range of products. I also learn from the great teachers we have in-house, we are always learning new things from each other.

What drives you, professionally?

Getting the job done.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

I think the industry will only continue to grow and add even more state-of-the-art products.

What is your favorite thing about working at CSI?

I have been with CSI for about a year altogether now. My favorite part about working here is that every day is a new challenge, it keeps things exciting.

How did you get into the HVAC industry?

Through a friend in the industry.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I love learning new skills and being part of the winning team here at CSI.

How do you keep up with the ever-changing climate of the HVAC industry?

I’m always trying to keep an open ear around the office, there is so much to learn from my co-workers. I also do my best to attend the various training classes we offer here at CSI.

What drives you, professionally?

My competitive nature keeps my fire burning.

What do you predict for the future of the HVAC industry?

HVAC is something people can’t live without, I think the industry is only going to get stronger with time.

Russ has worked as a delivery/warehouse employee on the CSI team for 4 years, says the one thing he would like to tell customers about CSI is that “We’re big enough to count, but small enough to care.” He enjoys working for CSI because of his co-workers. In fact, President Dave Heckler’s approach to employee empowerment is something that Russell has never seen before. After high school Russ hit the road for two years as a musician and admits that life on the road in the early ’80s taught him volumes. He and his wife, Alice (who owns The Write Design, a web-based graphic design company) have one daughter, Valerie, who attends Hopewell High School. Russ spends his free time playing music on the weekends.

Sandy wants customers to know that “we are here when you have a problem.” An eleven -year CSI veteran, she keeps her skills sharp with computer classes. Sandy handles most of the purchasing at CSI. She also helps out her co-workers by finding information and pitching in whenever necessary. Sandy appreciates the family atmosphere at work and at home she enjoys activities with husband Paul and two daughters, Jennifer and Lori.

Marci has served as administrative assistant on the CSI team for more than a decade. She sums up the company’s service philosophy this way, “We are willing to do whatever we can to help you, day or night.” That attitude extends to helping other members of the CSI team. “We are a very close knit group,” Marci notes. “We are all willing to help one another.” She is married to David Heckler, owner and vice president and mother to their three boys, aged 10, 13 and 25. In her leisure hours Marci enjoys spending time with her family, scrap-booking, reading, and traveling.

Rose has been with CSI for over two decades. She appreciates the fact that the family-oriented business has enabled her to work while raising her daughter. She holds an associate degree and her continuing education has included numerous bookkeeping seminars.

Mona is a very recent addition to the Comfort Supply, Inc. team. Mona works with Rose and Sandy on administrative tasks and helps around the office when needed. Mona is a great addition to CSI.