Copeland’s Brandy Powell Recognized for Commitment to HVACR Industry

ST. LOUIS (Oct. 10, 2025) – Copeland, a global provider of sustainable climate solutions, announced that Brandy Powell, vice president and general manager of residential and light-commercial air-conditioning for Copeland, was honored as one of the Top Women in HVACR, as recognized by The ACHR NEWS. She received this recognition at the Women in HVACR Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Brandy’s career spans more than three decades, during which she leverages her expertise to drive innovation, emphasize teamwork and champion the growth and development of women in the industry, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Starting out in the United States Air Force as one of few female flight test engineers and later shifting to a civilian career at Copeland (previously Emerson Climate Technologies), Brandy currently leads Copeland’s residential air-conditioning business overseeing the development, launch and adoption of groundbreaking solutions such as Copeland’s KF variable-speed scroll compressor (YAV*F platform), which is designed to help the industry meet current and future energy efficiency goals.

"Brandy has been instrumental in driving innovation at Copeland, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and sustainability," said John Schneider, president of Copeland’s Americas business. "Her dedication and expertise have been pivotal in shaping a more sustainable and forward-thinking future for our industry."

Outside of her responsibilities at Copeland, Brandy serves on the AHRI Unitary Sector Leadership Committee, helping guide standards by representing the industry to governing bodies such as DOE, EPA  and U.S. Congress. In her community, Brandy fosters interest among the next generation of industry leaders , serving as a judge for high school STEM   competitions and mentoring young women entering STEM fields.

Brandy holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering and Flight Systems from the Air Force Institute of Technology and a Master of Business Administration from Xavier University. Her passion, experience and collaborative mindset have been integral to Copeland growing and innovating technologies that reduce carbon emissions through the use of low-global warming potential refrigerants and meet current energy efficiency  demands while preparing for the future needs of customers globally.

According to its website, Women in HVACR, “exists to improve the lives of our members by providing professional avenues to connect with other women growing their careers in the HVACR industry. We empower women to succeed through networking opportunities, mentoring and education.” Now in its 22nd year, the Women in HVACR annual conference offers discussions and educational tracks that provide attendees business, sales and technical application training.