22 April 2026
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Stevie Mardy, Key Account Manager – A2W (Social Housing), Panasonic Heating and Cooling Solutions Europe, shares with us her journey from becoming the youngest female Branch Manager in a car rental business to her current role which is incredibly varied, highlighting the resilience and ambition that shape her career.
My first “grown-up” job was in car rental, where I worked my way up through the ranks to become the youngest female Branch Manager at the time. I’ve always been fiercely ambitious, and that role gave me invaluable experience in leadership, responsibility and working with people.
My career path shifted when I found out I was pregnant with rare type of identical twins, (Monochorionic/Monoamniotic or MCMC) which are extremely high-risk in terms of complications, and at that point my priority had to be our health and wellbeing. While it required a pivot, it also strengthened my resilience and adaptability — qualities that have continued to shape my approach to my career ever since.
Early career in HVAC
Like many people in the sector, I didn’t set out with a clear plan to work in heat pumps — I very much fell into the industry. My early career in HVAC focused more on air conditioning, but that changed when I saw the opportunity to work at Panasonic and as a result began working more closely with air to water heat pump technology.
It was there that I really started to see the difference heat pumps can make, not just technically, but in terms of people’s lives and the wider push towards a decarbonised society.
A varied role: Delivering installer training and support to resident engagement
Through initiatives such as the Future Homes Standard, I get to see first-hand the positive impact this transition has on communities.
Having the opportunity to engage directly with residents and stakeholders, and to help them understand how these changes benefit them both now and in the long term, is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.
My current role is incredibly varied, which is something I really enjoy. A large part of my work involves supporting housing associations and local authorities as they transition their housing stock from gas boilers to air source heat pumps (ASHPs). That support spans the entire journey — from early engagement through to post-installation.
I work closely with teams to provide training, helping them understand not only how the systems operate, but also how residents can use their heat pumps effectively. This includes basic fault-finding and maintenance guidance to ensure systems are running as efficiently as possible.
Resident engagement is a key focus for me, whether that’s through pre-installation sessions to explain how ASHPs differ from traditional gas boilers, or post-installation events designed to build confidence and maximise performance while understanding the best way to use their heat pump to suit their lifestyle.
Alongside this, I also spend time supporting installers working within social housing, helping to minimise disruption for residents wherever possible. Providing prestart meetings as well as technical advice on designs and what to be mindful of during f irst fix on site. Ultimately, my role sits at the intersection of technology, people and education — making sure everyone involved feels informed, supported and confident.
What do you see as the challenges facing the industry?
We have recently had issues with the standard of installs as an industry across the ECO4 sector, I am extremely pleased the new Warm Homes grant will have Kitemark standard inspections to ensure a level of quality to protect all parties.
One of the main challenges facing the industry is the level of work required to ensure fabric-first upgrades are completed during retrofit projects, so that heat pumps are the right and most effective solution for each property.
There are also ongoing challenges around infrastructure, particularly with Distribution Network Operators and the number of substation upgrades required. As we move quickly towards an electrified future, it’s essential that the infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
That said, we are doing everything we can to assist in the move towards the future. Panasonic’s Aquarea J Series in 5, 7 and 9kW are pre-approved for Connect & Notify, this is a great example of how barriers can be reduced and processes streamlined. We also supply a significant amount of data for those housing associations lobbying the government to improve these processes.
Who have been your inspirations?
I was honoured to be involved in the STEMazing inspiration academy, which was founded by Alex Knight MBE CEng FIMechE. Her commitment to inclusion for those in STEM careers is quite literally award winning. Along with working to inspire young people into these careers via the STEM sessions she shares within the academy, increasing her reach by empowering women in STEM careers to share these sessions in local schools.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside and learn from some incredible women throughout my career. Within the HVAC industry, Harriet Evans — previously at MHI and now with Qvantum — had a huge influence on me. She showed me the importance of remaining passionate and continuing to push for change, reinforcing the idea that with strong beliefs and determination, we really can shape the future of the industry.
Jenny Dean also played a pivotal mentoring role, encouraging me to enhance my career, step up with confidence, and recognise the importance of being a visible female role model within the sector.
Since joining Panasonic, Charley Sawyer in particular has had a profoundly positive impact on my working life. Her unwavering dedication and commitment to what we’re trying to achieve is genuinely inspiring and continues to motivate me every day.
A message to other women who are considering stepping into the heat pump industry
I’d say throw away any preconceived ideas about this being a “male-dominated” industry. It’s an incredibly welcoming space, full of passionate people who are all working towards a shared goal. There are so many opportunities to make a real difference, and you can absolutely achieve whatever you set your mind to.
It’s an exciting, fast-moving industry to be part of, and if the opportunity comes your way, I’d encourage you to take it. You’ll be supported, valued, and very much welcomed.
Beyond my workplace
Outside of work, life is busy in the best possible way. I have eight-year-old twin boys who keep me constantly on my toes. When I do get a bit of downtime, I love socialising — whether that’s dancing the night away, enjoying a long walk around a lake with the boys scooting ahead, or catching up with friends over brunch.
I’ve also been strength training for the past couple of years. I tell everyone it’s for my health… but really, it’s so I can keep picking the boys up even when they’re bigger than me!
