22 June 2026
|
Lizzy Holmes, Area Sales Manager at MHI Projects, shares her journey into the HVAC industry as she looked for a career, not just a “job”, and her passion for her role and for contributing to the business’s net zero goals through efficient system design and equipment selection.
I was 18 and didn’t know what I wanted to do as a career, which is completely normal at that age! My dad was a manager at Jaguar Land Rover and persuaded me to get a job there while I figured out which career path I wanted to take. I worked on the production line assembling engines for five years.
I enjoyed what I did, but I knew it wasn’t a long-term career for me. I worked shift patterns and realised that wasn’t something I wanted to do forever.
How did you get into the ACR industry?
I knew I wanted a career, not just a “job” — something with responsibility and opportunities to grow.
I saw the role advertised on LinkedIn and initially thought, “I don’t know anything about HVAC, I can’t do that!” But I decided to take the risk.
The job description highlighted the in-depth training programme on offer, and even though I had no previous experience or knowledge in the industry, the extensive training provided was what really attracted me to the role.
Knowing a company was willing to invest so much into training and developing me gave me the confidence to take the risk and jump into the unknown!
What does your current role involve?
I work with both contractors and consultants, offering a cradle to grave approach to designing VRF systems, whether that’s for a contractor design and build project or for inclusion within a consultant’s specification document.
I attend initial site visits to support customers with my recommendations, remain involved throughout the design process, and continue supporting post order to ensure everything runs smoothly with deliveries and commissioning.
What excites/interests you about the industry?
Every day is different! One day I could be on a roof looking at plant space for condenser locations, while the next I’m in the office scaling drawings, designing VRF systems, or meeting contractors and consultants to discuss upcoming projects.
The HVAC industry is at the forefront of helping achieve our net zero goals, as heating, cooling, and ventilation account for a large share of global energy use and carbon emissions. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to ensure the correct equipment is selected, along with the right design and controls.
How would you like to see your career developing?
Since joining the industry four years ago, I’ve gained so much knowledge and experience, and now I want to share it! I love the idea of mentoring and training new starters in the industry and supporting them throughout their HVAC careers.
There is a shortage of young people entering the industry, so I feel it’s really important for people like me to shine a light on the opportunities available and highlight the value of a career in the HVAC industry.
What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
“Just be yourself” — this has stuck with me since my early days!
People in sales can sometimes be stereotyped and seen almost as a caricature, but by being genuine, you build trust with your customers, and they keep coming back to you.
What do you see as the challenges facing the industry?
The evolving legislation around refrigerants and phasedown, along with new refrigerants and technologies, is being outpaced by ever changing regulations, with the phasedown curve becoming steeper all the time. This can be challenging.
What would you say to other women who are considering coming into the ACR industry? Give it a go! I am so glad I made the jump into this industry four years ago, and you might be surprised by how many women already work in the industry.
The stereotype that “it’s a man’s industry” couldn’t be further from the truth! I couldn’t imagine doing anything else, and it really is a career for life!
Is there a little-known fact about yourself that would surprise other people?
I am an avid golfer and have played since I was five. Thanks, Dad, for roping me into your retirement sport!
