Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 HARDI x MID $5,000 Daniel Jennings Memorial Scholarship. This year’s recipients exemplify the kind of forward-thinking leadership that will shape the future of the HVACR industry for years to come.
Congratulations to Our Scholarship Recipients:
- Katie Blaufuss is a Strategic Sales Executive at Trane Technologies with over 15 years of experience across finance, banking, and HVAC. She supports national distribution strategies and dealer networks, working closely with private equity-backed consolidators. Katie serves as Chair of HARDI’s Supplier Council and is a member of the HARDI Emerging Leaders program and Women in HVACR.
- Joni Lora, LSSBB, is a Territory Manager for Marcone Plumbing, overseeing strategic growth across Washington State in military, facility, and residential plumbing markets. With 25+ years of experience in sales, manufacturing, and government consulting, she brings a strong focus on efficiency and supply chain optimization. Joni is also a long-time educator and mentor within the industry.
Both recipients will soon begin their graduate studies in the renowned Master of Industrial Distribution (MID) program at Texas A&M University’s College of Engineering. The scholarship, established to honor the legacy of Dr. Daniel F. Jennings, the founding Director of the Master of Industrial Distribution Program, supports professionals who are committed to strengthening the HVACR channel through education and leadership.
“This industry thrives when we invest in its people,” said Stella Gary-Keane, VP of Talent Development at HARDI. “Joni and Katie represent the kind of talent and drive that will carry HVACR into its next era. We’re proud to support their development and help accelerate their impact.”
Each recipient will receive $5,000 in scholarship funds, distributed across four semesters, to support their studies in the MID program. The program equips industry professionals with advanced skills in distribution strategy, supply chain management, and business leadership—critical competencies for the evolving HVACR landscape.
HARDI remains deeply committed to the long-term health and growth of the HVACR industry. Investing in our current and emerging leaders is one of the most powerful ways we can ensure a resilient, innovative, and high-performing future for all.
To learn more about the Daniel Jennings Memorial Scholarship and other HARDI talent initiatives, please visit www.hardinet.org.
