UID Offers Powerful Learning for HVAC Leaders
Every year, the University of Innovative Distribution (UID) brings wholesale distribution professionals from across North America together for four intensive days of learning, networking, and leadership development. Hosted in Indianapolis, Indiana (USA) and organized by the Association Education Alliance (AEA), UID offers HRAI members discounted access to one of the most respected training events in the distribution industry.
As many members can attest, UID delivers lasting value. "I've been seven times, and it's always been worth the investment," says Mike Feedham , Director, Product Sales and Supply Chain with Refrigerative Supply Limited, an HRAI member. "It's not just about networking; UID offers a really wide range of sessions and training that you can't get anywhere else, from leadership and sales to purchasing, finance, and even trends in the economy. The content is incredibly diverse."
One of the perks of attending UID is the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) issued by Purdue University. Attendees receive a Letter of Completion for 30 hours of CEUs, which can be applied toward a Professional Certificate in Innovative Distribution, which is awarded after attending three UID events.
Worth multiple trips
UID 2025, held in March, featured over 40 unique sessions across six major learning tracks: Distribution Strategy, Leadership/Professional Development, Management, Marketing, Operations, and Sales. As in past years, the event drew participants at all career stages, from seasoned leaders to rising managers, offering a wealth of sessions tailored to each level of experience and industry experience.
“I’d send all of our managers every year if I could,” Mike adds. “It’s just not something that’s readily available to us elsewhere.”
Certainly, the diversity of content at UID draws many familiar faces. Billy Tardif, Branch Manager at Kerr Controls Limited, is another HRAI member who took advantage of the discount to return for his second year. “The first time was a bit of a discovery–I was learning what it was all about and brushing up on my knowledge and skill set,” he says. “This time, I focused on the sales track and took the opportunity to learn more about AI (artificial intelligence) in distribution, how to be a better leader, and how to understand professional relationships.”
With the event still fresh in his mind, Billy adds, “It’s also a great reminder that no matter the industry, we share a lot of the same challenges.”
Melanie Harris from ECCO Supply also attended her second UID in 2025. “My positive experience the first year definitely motivated me to come back,” she says. “I chose a different learning track and loved hearing from new speakers on fresh topics.”
With advice for future attendees, this year's HRAI participants agree that it pays to review the itinerary prior to the show and get a sense of when and where topics of interest will take centre stage. Moreover, adds Melanie, "Go with an open mind and don't be afraid to deviate from the preset tracks. You'll learn just as much from other attendees as you will from the speakers."
Plan for 2026
Professional development, networking, and leadership training are central to the HVAC industry's growth. Events like UID provide HRAI members with a rare opportunity to gain cutting-edge insights and practical skills in a concentrated and well-supported environment.
“I would recommend it to anyone looking to grow their knowledge,” says Mike. “You’ll learn things you didn’t expect and build on what you already know.”
Click for more information on UID 2026 and learn about HRAI’s partnership with AEA and other wholesaler and distributor industry partners.
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