RACA Journal May 2023 | Page 12

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Associations
to the industry . This is because the government recognises refrigeration and air conditioning as critical skills to train more technicians and where existing professionals need upskilling . To achieve this , SAIRAC works with vocation training institutions around the country , of which ACRA is probably the biggest in the HVAC industry , to ensure that the industry has qualified professionals . For our body , training and growth are the key objectives to achieve .
“ SAIRAC Johannesburg also hosts events like Christmas-in- July , a special annual celebration where members can network with other professionals . The AGM and national AGM are other events we host , rotating them among the regional centres . This year , Johannesburg will be hosting the national AGM all held simultaneously including a black-tie evening .
“ In October , we ' ve got our Fellows Lunch , which recognises people who ' ve been in the industry for a long time , and to confer on them the Fellow status in recognition of their long service with a token of appreciation – a special lunch in their honour .”
SAIRAC Johannesburg has grown strongly over the last few years , says Fox . It is an active organisation with a large number of regular events for members to uplift their skills and constantly refresh their knowledge . “ The committee plans the calendar of technical and social events for the year , which are then implemented by the team .”
In conclusion , SAIRAC has come a long way since its inception in 1951 . The passion and commitment of its members have seen the organisation grow and become a significant player in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry . Their vision to broaden knowledge and train young professionals is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that the industry thrives . RACA
“ On 17 July 1951 , the South African Institute of Refrigeration was founded at a meeting of refrigeration engineers and food scientists .”

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RACA Journal I June 2023 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za