Ron Swenson and Gary Gribbon can almost see the ocean from the Critchfield Pacific, Inc. (CPI) headquarters located on the main drag between the airport and Waikiki just across from Honolulu Harbor on the island of Oahu. Even without the ocean view both Ron and Gary are pleased with their location.

Ron and Gary each have more than 25 years experience in the HVAC business and were working for the same California company before deciding to leave the mainland and move their families to Hawaii. Already well acquainted with CMI’s stellar reputation from working on the mainland, they were pleased to learn that CMI was well known in Hawaii. “Local business men really trusted CMI,” Ron explains.

When Ron and Gary met with Joe Critchfield, they knew immediately that a partnership with CMI would be a good one. “Business is tough enough,” Ron states. “It’s important to enjoy the people you work with. We really liked the people at CMI and their business ethics.”  

Underneath a swaying palm tree and the new CPI sign, business is booming for Ron and Gary and CPI’s 20 employees. Hotels, condominiums, power plants and even a few large residences are all currently in contract.  In just less than a year, CPI has more than $12.5 million in backlog on the books and Ron foresees CPI’s crew will soon be growing to keep up with the demand.

Ron and Gary agree their move to the islands was a good one. They both appreciate the Hawaiian spirit that blows like the trade winds across the island. “There’s always stress in business, but it’s different here. The atmosphere is more relaxed,” Gary states.

“There’s a little more care in the business climate,” Ron tries to explain. “There’s more Aloha,” he adds, summing up the difference like a true Hawaiian.

             

             

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