Synergy Solution Group, a network of best-in-class commercial HVAC contractors, recently wrapped up its 2025 Leadership Forum, a three-day event designed to develop the next generation of leaders in the mechanical industry. Held in Chicago, the forum brought together more than 70 leaders from Synergy member companies across the country.

The forum featured expert facilitator Vanessa Kiley, Exceptional Leaders, who challenged attendees to look inward and lead with intention. “Who you are is the root of leadership,” Kiley said during her opening session. Using Pixar’s Inside Out as a lens, she introduced the concept of emotional maturity as the foundation for leading with confidence, clarity, and compassion.

Attendees explored the six core emotions, joy, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise, and how those emotions impact decision-making, team dynamics, and workplace culture. “You hire the whole person,” Kiley reminded the group. “And being emotionally mature means learning to navigate both your own emotions and the emotions of those around you.”

On day two, participants reviewed their 360° feedback reports and learned how to turn insight into action. Kiley emphasized the importance of receiving both positive and developmental feedback and encouraged leaders to build on their strengths. “If someone took the time to give you feedback, it means they care, trust you, and believe you can be better,” she said.

The afternoon featured the “Tradewinds Challenge,” a hands-on team activity that tested communication, adaptability, and trust. Attendees quickly discovered how the game mirrored the realities of leadership, requiring them to shift roles, let go of control, and work through unclear processes, all while navigating unexpected change.

The forum wrapped on day three with a session on accountability and mentor group reflections, allowing participants to connect deeply, share real challenges, and leave with clear action steps. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to grow in a peer-supported, non-competitive environment.

“The Synergy experience was enlightening to me to identify blind spots in my management of our teams,” said Shawn Lally (Cox Engineering). “The entire three days will help me professionally, in life, in general with family, and everyone I come in contact with.”