The Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) accepted the resignation of its president, William G. “Woody” Sutton, effective the end of February 2007.

He was elected in September 2001 following his retirement as Rear Admiral, United States Navy. During his tenure, the organization has made numerous advances in developing of industry standards; expanding product certification programs; strengthening the organization’s state, federal and international legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts; recruiting, training and developing skilled HVACR technicians; and building cooperation among industry associations worldwide.

Until Sutton’s successor is named, Stephen Yurek, ARI chief operating officer and general counsel, and Mark Menzer, senior vice president, will manage day-to-day activities.