Jack Rise Honored with ACCA Spirit of Independence Award

Posted on:

March 30, 2022

ACCA announces the late Jack Rise as the winner of ACCA’s most prestigious honor, the Spirit of Independence Award.

The Spirit of Independence Award is presented to an individual who makes significant and lasting contributions to the strength, success, and independence of HVACR contractors. The award recognizes an individual who goes above and beyond the call of duty, displaying creativity, ingenuity, and perseverance in their pursuit of a better industry.

Jack Rise passed away in December of 2021, his wife Bobbi Kaufmann-Rise received this honor in his name at ACCA 2022 Conference and Expo in St. Louis, MO. Rise was a certified member of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society and had 36 years of industry experience, having worked as both a contractor and distributor of HVACR products. As an ACCA Educational Program Instructor Certification (EPIC) certified instructor, Jack shared his vast industry knowledge with countless students through ACCA’s residential and commercial design classes, on-demand and live virtual courses, and ACCA Now magazine.

“I am so proud and honored that Jack is receiving this award,” said Bobbi Kaufmann-Rise. “It’s just the best that he is at the top of his industry after spending his whole life working and putting his all into it. I wish he was here with us to celebrate it with us. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Jack Rise’s success as an educator stemmed from his ability to share his personal experiences as a technician with students. He truly cared about advancing the industry, and had a unique teaching style that was adaptable and relatable. His passion for the industry serves as inspiration to continue learning, whether it be through ACCA’s ComfortU training center, in-person training, on-demand training, live virtual courses, or with ACCA’s residential and commercial design manuals, like Understanding Manual J® and Understanding Manual D®, both written by Jack.

“Jack is remembered as a dedicated contractor and champion of ACCA,” said Barton James, ACCA president and CEO. “He changed countless lives through his knowledge, positivity, generosity, and determination, and is very deserving of this honor.”

To learn more about ACCA’s Awards Programs, click here.