An executive at HVAC market training organization North American Technician Excellence will soon be taking on some extra duties.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute announced Wednesday that John Lanier, chief operating officer at NATE will become COO at the institute, supervising public affairs, technical services, regulatory issues and information technology.

"John Lanier's expanded role at AHRI will help us meet the many challenges that come with the growth and success we have seen and expect to experience in the coming years," said AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek. "I'm excited that he has agreed to take on this challenge, and I look forward to having him apply his many skills and his focus to some of our most important programs."

Lanier will continue his work at NATE, officials said. The AHRI represents most of the major U.S. manufacturers of HVAC sales equipment.