VRF Team Lead, Northern California and Nevada Offices, Pacific Southwest Region

Nathan Hughes is a dedicated Ductless Technical Specialist (DTS) with the Northern California and Nevada Commercial Sales Offices. With a robust background in Nuclear Power Generation, Nathan transitioned to the Trane team in 2015, bringing a wealth of technical expertise and a commitment to excellence.

In his current role, Nathan plays a pivotal part in ensuring the seamless execution of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) projects. From the initial concept and design phase to system installation and startup, Nathan is instrumental in guiding projects to successful completion. His comprehensive understanding of ductless systems and meticulous attention to detail ensures that each project meets Trane’s high standards of performance and reliability.

With a passion for helping those around him and a track record of success, Nathan continues to be a valuable asset to the Northern California and Nevada Commercial Sales Offices, driving forward the capabilities and efficiency of VRF technology in the commercial sector.

DTS Leader, Midwest Region

Justin Sanders leads Trane’s VRF operations in the Midwest Region, where he guides a hands-on team that supports every stage of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems—helping with design, setup, field support, and everything in between. Whether it’s walking others through system applications or showing up on-site to walk a jobsite during VRF installation or to troubleshoot issues, Justin and his team work shoulder-to-shoulder with installers and technicians to keep things running smoothly.

He's also deeply involved in training and mentoring, making sure field crews and Trane technicians have the tools and know-how to handle whatever comes their way. Justin’s journey with Trane started as a Ductless Technical Specialist after the Joint Venture launched, following years of experience supporting VRF work at a legacy rep firm.

With over 12 years working directly with Mitsubishi VRF systems—and more than two decades in the HVAC industry—Justin’s not just a go-to resource for technical insight. He’s someone who leads by example, builds confidence in others, and keeps the focus on getting real results in the field.

Justin often says, "A problem well defined is a problem half solved," a philosophy that underscores his approach to troubleshooting and mentoring. By emphasizing clarity and precision, he ensures that challenges are tackled effectively and efficiently, fostering a culture of proactive problem-solving.

Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife of 28 years and his two sons and is always planning the next family road trip.

VRF Operations Leader, Southeast Region

Mike Reed serves as the VRF Operations Leader for the Southeast Region at Trane Technologies, where he leads the Southeast Ductless Technical Specialist team. He and his team provide end-to-end support for Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems—from design and application guidance to equipment start-up and on-site technician support. They also facilitate training pro-grams for contractors and Trane technicians to ensure excellence and consistency in the field.

Mike began his journey with Trane as a Ductless Technical Specialist following the launch of the Joint Venture. Prior to that, he spent five years supporting VRF operations at a legacy representative firm. With over 16 years of hands-on experience working with METUS VRF equipment—and more than 30 years in the HVAC industry overall—Mike is a trusted resource for technical leadership and strategic field support.

“As a leader in VRF operations across the Southeast, I work with our technical team to ensure applications and installations go smoothly—from design to startup and beyond.”

Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife recently celebrated becoming grandparents to a baby boy in March, adding to the joy of raising four daughters. His commitment to both professional growth and family life is a driving force in everything he does.