www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I September 2023 23
INDUSTRY REMINISCES BY OUTGOING RPM CEO PAT BURKE
Business
Pat Burke ' s 60-year history in the HVAC industry reflects on the transformative power of technology and the challenges faced along the way .
From the exciting beginnings of air conditioning in the 1960s to the present-day focus on energy efficiency and environmental considerations , the industry has evolved significantly . As technology continues to shape HVAC systems , professionals like Burke will remain at the forefront , adapting and innovating to meet the ever-changing needs of a dynamic industry .
Burke has spent more than 30 years leading RPM Engineering Group , a company known for its expertise in maintenance consulting , consumer refurbishment , and retrofits . As Burke prepares to retire from his role as CEO and step back from the industry to split his time between Johannesburg where the head office is and Cape Town , he entrusts the future of RPM to Barry Wallett , his son-in-law , and a distinguished figure in the industry in his own right . With Wallett ’ s expertise and extensive network , he is poised to continue Burke ' s legacy and drive the company to new heights .
As the days wind down to his ultimate retirement , Burke intends to devote at least a portion of his time to documenting the company ' s journey and expertise through writing articles , while still consulting to the firm whenever his knowledge is required .
As he approaches the end of his career , Burke reflects on the evolution of that industry , shares his personal journey , and ensures that exciting innovations are on the horizon that promise a brighter future for cooling technologies .
Throughout his career , Burke witnessed remarkable advancements in the air conditioning industry . He remains as enthusiastic as ever , embracing cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to revolutionise cooling systems .
“ During the 1960s , air conditioning experienced a surge in popularity , with innovation and new products emerging from the US . This was an exciting time when everything seemed new and full of possibilities . Companies like Airco evolved into AC & E , later splitting into Associated Air which became Improvair , which remains an influential player in the industry . Everybody knew each other back then through Friday night parties , close-knit relationships among suppliers , and the HVAC community thrived on camaraderie and shared knowledge ,” says Burke . There wasn ’ t the proliferation of small contractors and companies as there is today , but a concentration of larger corporates .
As the industry expanded , the 1980s brought economic tightening amid the fallout of sanctions , which impacted many companies . The industry saw the proliferation of small contractors and companies , often formed by retrenched individuals from failed enterprises . “ This influx of smaller
© Eamonn Ryan / RACA Journal players strained the industry financially , relying on wholesalers as their primary source of support . With intense competition and undercutting prevalent , it became a challenging period for all involved ,” says Burke .
In the early 1980s , Burke was transferred from Durban to Cape Town , where he discovered a more honourable business atmosphere with a smaller but respectable refrigeration market . His experience remained within the realm of cold rooms , refrigeration , and related systems . However , seeking a change , Burke transitioned to the maintenance sector as he joined consulting firm Hill Kaplan Scott , with the focus on multidisciplinary services .
Throughout his career , Burke witnessed technological advances . One notable change , he says , was the rise of unitary and split units , which gained popularity due to their efficiency and affordability . The market for Variable Refrigerant Flow ( VRF ) systems , often referred to as split units on steroids , also expanded , primarily catering to office environments and smaller buildings . While VRF systems offer advanced technology and energy efficiency , their installation and maintenance require specialised expertise .
Consulting offered Burke the opportunity to utilise his in-depth knowledge of HVAC systems and provide valuable guidance to clients . The experience further honed his skills and prepared him for future endeavours in the industry .
RPM Engineering Group
Barry Wallett , RPM Engineering Group managing director .
Pat Burke , outgoing Group CEO of RPM Engineering Group .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I September 2023 23