Our History

ACCCO History

The Air Conditioning Contractors of Central Ohio (ACCCO) history can be traced to the early 1900s during the pre-World War I era when central heating and factory mechanization were taking root. From these historical mile markers, two organizations emerged to become voices for workers in the industry: the National Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Association (NWAHACA), established in 1914 to represent manufacturers, wholesalers, and contractors, and the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors of America (ARCA), established in 1946 to represent contractors exclusively.

1906 – 1924

According to what little materials exist, what is now called ACCCO was founded in 1906. Most of the records during this period were destroyed.

1924

Columbus Heating Association was organized by Ed Bogen, Art Hare, Jim Bogen, and Carl Norland.

1931

Columbus Sheet Metal Contractors Association was organized by five or six members of the Columbus Heating Association. They were also members of the Ohio Sheet Metal Association.

1951 – 1960

After World War II, the two organizations merged to form The Heating & Sheet Metal Association of Columbus, Ohio.

Shortly thereafter, the name was changed to The Heating, Air Conditioning & Sheet Metal Association of Columbus, Ohio.

1963

The organization became a chapter of the National Warm Air Heating & Air Conditioning Association.

1964 – 1966

During this period, the organization’s name changed to The Heating & Air Conditioning Association of Greater Columbus, removing “Sheet Metal” from the name.

1968

NWAHACA dissolved to merge with ARCA. Manufacturer members became part of what is now known as the Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute (ARI). Before departing NWAHACA, they established a trust fund to assist contractors in operating an independent trade organization. The tangible assets of NWAHACA, as well as the rights to the technical manuals program, were transferred to the contractor members.

1969

As a result of the merger, a new entity, the National Environmental Systems Contractors Association (NESCA), was formed.

1969 – 1978

The Heating & Air Conditioning Association of Greater Columbus became affiliated with the Air Conditioning Contractor of America (ACCA) and changed its name to Central Ohio Air Conditioning Contractors of America (COACCA).

1978

NESCA was renamed Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).

2003

When COACCA joined the ACCA Federation the name was changed to its current name, Air Conditioning Contractors of Central Ohio.

2015

ACCA National terminated all affiliations with state and local chapters and ACCCO became a standalone trade association representing HVACR contractors and associate members throughout Central Ohio. While now separate from the state association, ACCCO remains closely aligned to the state association, Air Conditioning Contractors of Ohio.