www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I July 2024 17
Business
ZACH REINECKE LEAVES
A LEGACY
By Eamonn Ryan
The original founder and inspiration of the ACRA Kimberley branch which formally opened in May , was a name that loomed over the entire proceedings given he passed away during the process : Zach Reinecke .
At the opening , RACA Journal caught up with his wife and business partner , Frances Reinecke , who shared some insights .
The legacy of Zach Reinecke , a pioneering figure in the HVAC & R sector in Kimberley , continues to inspire as his vision of establishing a training centre became a reality with the inauguration of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy ( ACRA ) branch in Kimberley . Through his decadeslong commitment to excellence and education , Reinecke ' s impact leaves a legacy in the form of the facility , marking a new era for aspiring technicians and professionals .
“ Zach ' s journey in refrigeration began over six decades ago when he founded the first air conditioning company in the Northern Cape . His familial ties to the industry spanned generations , with his late father-in-law , Charles Reinecke , installing the region ' s first cold room and freezer room , laying the foundation for Reinecke ' s lifelong passion ,” explains Frances .
Reinecke ’ s career epitomised dedication , innovation , perseverance and determination . “ He started as a technician , evolved into an engineer , and ultimately pursued his dream of establishing a training centre in Kimberley . That initial business , Northern Cape Refrigeration , ultimately evolved into Ambient Control . Then in February 2019 , the first steps were taken to establish an ACRA satellite office , offering safe handling of gases courses . By August 2022 , ACRA officially opened its doors [ as opposed to the official launch in May 2024 ], fulfilling Zach ' s dream of providing comprehensive training and education in HVAC & R ,” says Frances Reinecke .
Tragically , Reinecke ' s untimely passing in October 2022 left a void in the industry , but Frances vowed to continue his legacy . " We will still carry on with the training centre ," she affirmed . " His dream has come true , and we are committed to ensuring its success ."
Reinecke ' s passion for training stemmed from a desire to elevate industry standards and address the shortage of skilled technicians . " He recognised the importance of proper
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competition and continuous improvement ," Frances explained . " His dedication to excellence drove him to instill his knowledge and expertise in the next generation of technicians ."
Frances fondly reminisced about his remarkable journey and his unwavering dedication to education : " Zach was not only a skilled technician but also a passionate educator . He was a soft-spoken and patient individual , with a genuine enthusiasm for teaching and a willingness to engage with students at every level . He had the patience to explain
Zack Reinecke , inspiration for ACRA Kimberley , together with wife Frances .
Frances Reinecke .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I July 2024 17