RETA-RSES Names Former National President Vern Sanderson as Executive Director
Key Highlights
- Vern Sanderson brings 37+ years of experience in industrial and commercial refrigeration, with a focus on safety and technical education.
- He aims to improve training, certification, and industry news dissemination across the HVACR sector.
- He has played a key role in merging RETA and RSES, positioning the organization for future growth.
SCHAUMBURG, Illinois — RETA-RSES has appointed Vern Sanderson as its new executive director, the association announced during the 2025 RETA Annual Conference, where the news was met with enthusiastic support from more than 1,300 attendees.
Sanderson brings over 37 years of experience in the industrial and commercial refrigeration industry and is well known for his leadership in safety, training, and technical education. A former RETA National President and Authorized Instructor, he has held every nationally elected position within the organization and is recognized for his ability to simplify complex refrigeration topics for diverse audiences.
A respected educator and author, Sanderson has published nearly 200 technical articles and the book Functional Standard Operating Procedures for the Ammonia Refrigeration Industry. He has presented at major industry events including those hosted by the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR), the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES), and RETA.
In outlining his goals, Sanderson said his immediate focus will be understanding staff roles across RETA-RSES offices to identify strengths and development needs. “In the coming year, it is my goal to provide industry professionals with the ability to learn, test, and certify across the entire HVACR industry,” he said. “Providing more industry news, more training opportunities, more Chapter meeting options, and more affinity benefits maximizes our value.”
He also plans to expand the value of the Annual Conference for industry partners by offering broader marketing and exposure opportunities for exhibitors, sponsors, and advertisers.
Having served on the RETA-RSES Merge Committee for more than nine months, Sanderson has played an integral role in bringing the two associations together. Interim Executive Director Don Tragethon, who supported the transition and managed recent meetings in Spokane, Washington, will continue to assist Sanderson during the handover period.
“After watching Vern observe the processes and procedures these past couple of weeks, I have no doubt he will bring our Association to the next level of success,” said Tragethon.
According to RETA-RSES, Sanderson’s leadership will strengthen the association’s position as a leading source for HVACR training, education, and certification. Additional updates regarding his initiatives and upcoming programs will be announced in the coming months.
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