The Golden Toolbox award is given annually to an individual in the HVACR industry who has demonstrated exemplary service, support and advocacy for technician certification. Boynton says, "The award specifically recognizes the accomplishments of those who work 'in the field,' whether it’s in manufacturing, the service industry or media. We clearly have a deserving recipient in Warren as he exemplifies the type of dedicated individual who makes this a more vibrant and professional industry."

Lupson, who has a career in the HVACR industry spanning nearly 50 years, is president of Lupson and Associates, Silver Spring, Md., and a consultant to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI). He has tirelessly served on many boards and volunteer committees to champion further education, testing and certification in the HVACR industry, including advising ACCA chapters across the country to help them promote their education and training programs. He has been very active in NATE activities, including serving as co-chair of the NATE technical committee and overseeing the annual NATE Certified Technician Competition held at Comfortech each year. Lupson was also the charter recipient of the ACCA’s Training Excellence Award presented to him in 1999.

"I’m very honored that my peers would bestow this award on me," says Lupson. "It’s a real privilege to continue to play a role in promoting education, certification and professionalism in the heating, cooling and refrigeration industry."

Headquartered in Arlington, Va., NATE was founded in 1997 as the nation’s largest non-profit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians. NATE and Contracting Business magazine sponsor the annual Golden Toolbox award.