The refrigeration side of HVACR isn’t standing still.
Between new refrigerant regulations, increasing system complexity, and a changing workforce, the demands on trade professionals and the tools they rely on are shifting fast.
These changes aren’t just industry headlines—they’re happening on rooftops, in attics, and on job sites every day. So, we sat down with Garrett Wong, Category Director of Refrigeration at The Malco Group, to get his take on what HVACR pros are facing right now, how the industry is evolving, and what to expect next.
Check out more from our interview with Garrett below.
What originally drew you to refrigeration and the tools that support the trade?
Garrett: I originally started in high tech and the semiconductor industry, where I saw firsthand how industrial manufacturing was contributing to pollution and global warming. Working on energy efficiency and renewable technologies felt more meaningful, like being part of something bigger than just producing the next product headed for a landfill. About three years ago, I moved into HVACR and saw how the science was evolving to improve system efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It felt like a breath of, no pun intended, fresh air. Spending time in the field with trade pros on rooftops, in attics, and on job sites gave me real appreciation for what they do and why their tools matter. Their work is demanding and being part of a team that helps make their jobs easier and safer makes it personally fulfilling.
How has feedback from technicians in the field shaped the way you approach product development?
Garrett: One of the things I’ve learned working in this industry is that there are thousands of different ways to get from point A to point B. While most technicians follow consistent paths, there are always nuances in how trade pros work that we might not expect. It takes time to investigate and understand those variations to build a product that works well across most use cases. A lot of market research and upfront homework before concept and feasibility go a long way toward ensuring product success at launch and capturing a larger share of the market from the start.
The tools are changing because the trade is changing. And those who stay closest to the jobsite will be the ones who get it right.
Refrigeration is a major focus area for The Malco Group—why is this category so important right now?
Garrett: There have been several industry-wide changes over the last 5+ years as HVACR evolves to support more environmentally conscious initiatives. A major focus has been the transition to A2L refrigerants, requiring greater safety awareness in both how jobs are done and which tools are used.
We’re also seeing a major workforce shift, with many trade pros retiring and not enough new workers entering the field. At the same time, demand is rising—from residential cooling and heat pumps replacing hydrocarbon furnaces to systems supporting data centers and AI growth—while system complexity continues to increase. All of this makes accurate, easy-to-use tools and test equipment more critical than ever. And more change is coming, with transitions to high-pressure CO2 systems and A3 refrigerants like propane already gaining traction in Europe and other regions.
What attracted you to join The Malco Group and lead the refrigeration category?
Garrett: I’ve expected for some time that the HVACR industry was heading into a season of consolidation amongst brands and manufacturers, and the distribution channel is starting to demand this as they narrow the number of brands they carry.
I had heard of Malco within the industry. The brand is very strong in the market, with a reputation for reliable, high-quality tools, and I saw how Malco Tools, after joining the Aspen Pumps Group, was broadening its reach as The Malco Group through additional acquisitions.
When the opportunity arose for The Malco Group to further expand and augment its refrigeration category, I was immediately interested. There was strong alignment with the product lines I was working on before, and the corporate direction and leadership team are more aligned with where I expect the industry to head. I’m very excited to be part of the team, focused on both internal product development and strategic acquisitions.
Outside of work, what’s something you’re passionate about or enjoy doing in your spare time?
Garrett: Beyond work, I spend most of my time between my family and church. But I am also a well-versed movie buff and play and collect Magic the Gathering trading cards.
Big thanks to Garrett for taking the time to sit down with us and share his perspective. The work he’s doing to advance our refrigeration category is making a real impact across The Malco Group. As we continue to support trade pros with reliable, jobsite-ready solutions, it’s exactly this kind of leadership that moves the needle.
Be sure to check out our new MalcoEdge™ line to see how we’re changing the landscape of refrigeration tools. From vacuum pumps, recovery units, hoses, tube tools, manifolds, measuring equipment, and service tools—we’re giving trade pros the edge they need on every job.
See our full product portfolio at malcogrp.com.