Our Company
Where Expertise Meets Partnership
AEC is the trusted source for expert HVAC solutions no matter how complex the challenge. We provide specialized equipment and services for commercial, educational, industrial, medical facilities, and others. Moreover, we bring top-tier technical know-how and a unique partnership mindset to every job,
Our Core Values
What we believe is what we deliver, every day. A people-first, proactive problem-solving approach led by experts committed to doing the right thing defines how we work, and how we show up.
Humbly Confident
We are continuous learners who actively seek the wisdom of others.
Do the Right Thing
We understand the difference between right and wrong, and we leave no job behind.
Can Do Positive Attitude
We are creative and bring creativity to solve challenging projects.
Customer Success
We are successful when our customers are successful.
We Care
We are respectful of our team members, partners, and customers by valuing their time, feelings, and perspectives as you would your own.
Our Roots
Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Air Equipment Company (AEC) specializes in manufacturer representation, HVAC system design and technical service for a wide range of critical environment projects.
We pride ourselves in cultivating strong professional partnerships with engineers, contractors, owners, and manufacturing companies throughout the entire lifecycle of every project. Our reputation is built on reliability and expertise.
We’re equally committed to our employees, making training, education and problem solving our top priority. Technical experts and leaders want to work here.
From equipment selection to on-site support to delivery, startup and commissioning, AEC stays invested in delivering effective outcomes for you, your company and your stakeholders.
How It All Began
Air Equipment Company (AEC) was founded in 1946 by Hank Lutes as the Kentucky Representative for AAF & Buffalo Forge.
The company evolved and grew throughout the decades to increase focus on specialty mechanical equipment and controls products. This led to representation of ABB, Phoenix Controls, ONICON, Air Monitor and others. Eventually, AEC opened an office in Lexington, Kentucky, becoming the exclusive representative for LG, ClimateMaster, Trox, Lennox and Desert Aire. Growth continued with the addition of AAON, JCI / York Equipment, a Hydronics Division and an office in Evansville, Indiana.
All along, AEC’s “people-first” culture took shape, with some of the industry’s best and brightest joining the company to lead us into the 21st century.
AEC was recognized in 2022, 2023 and 2026 by Louisville Business First as one of the 50 Fastest Growing Companies in the Louisville Metro Area and Best Places to Work in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
We love working here.
Want to find out why?
Join our people-first culture where you’ll be part of a passionate team of HVAC professionals looking for like-minded colleagues, challenge, and career growth.
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