Local Voices | New Zealand
By Amika Rugnath
National Service Account Manager, McAlpine Hussmann | Auckland, New Zealand
“You do not need to know everything when you start—you need the determination to learn, the courage to take opportunities, and the confidence to keep moving forward.”
My journey in the refrigeration industry began in 2007 at McAlpine Hussmann, when I started as a maternity relief employee. Little did I know this opportunity would grow into a 19-year career with the company, filled with learning, growth, challenges and exciting new opportunities.
After starting out, I was offered a permanent position as National Service Coordinator. From there, I was promoted to an administration role, continuing to build my knowledge and understanding of the business.
A few years later, an opportunity opened in Case Supply and Marketing as Case Supply Administrator. This became a vital part of my learning journey, as I gained valuable knowledge about refrigeration cases, parts and the technical side of the industry.
During this time, I was fortunate to have an incredible mentor, John Kennedy, who was always willing to answer my many questions, share his knowledge and guide me through new challenges. He taught me how to price up complete supermarket stores, helping me develop the skills and confidence that would become so important throughout my career. His willingness to share his experience and support my learning has made a lasting difference.
With years of experience and continued learning behind me, I was promoted to Project Manager, where I spent nine years in the Case Supply department. Those years gave me invaluable experience in project delivery, planning, coordination and working with different teams to bring projects to life.
I then moved into an exciting new opportunity as Project Manager for air-conditioning and refrigeration installations at service stations, expanding my experience into another area of the industry.
My latest career move has been into the role of National Service Account Manager, managing a large account and bringing together the knowledge, experience and relationships I have built over the past 19 years.
Looking back, I am proud of how far I have come. My journey has been one of continuous learning, embracing change, stepping outside my comfort zone and having the confidence to take on new challenges. Every role has played an important part in shaping who I am today.
During the inaugural Global HVACR Women Week, I celebrate not only my own journey but also the people who have supported me, shared their knowledge and helped me grow along the way. I am especially grateful to John Kennedy for his mentorship during such an important stage of my career.
Nineteen years with one company is something I am proud of. It represents commitment, resilience, growth and the willingness to keep learning.
My journey shows that you do not need to know everything when you start—you need the determination to learn, the courage to take opportunities, and the confidence to keep moving forward.
Here’s to celebrating the women already making their mark in refrigeration and HVAC, encouraging the next generation, and inspiring more women to discover the opportunities this incredible industry has to offer.
With 19 years’ experience at McAlpine Hussmann, Amika Rugnath has developed extensive knowledge across service coordination, administration, marketing and case supply. She is committed to continuous learning, building strong working relationships and contributing to the business’s ongoing success.
Local voices. Global connections. One HVACR community.
This article was contributed by Amika Rugnath for Global HVACR Women Week 2026, taking place from 25–31 October.
It forms part of our Local Voices — Speak Up. Write Now. series, in which women share their experiences of working in HVACR and the connections that have made a difference along the way. By sharing these stories, we hope to help others find people they can learn from, exchange ideas with and support.
What connection has made a difference to you? We welcome contributions from women across HVACR, wherever you work and whatever stage of your career you have reached. Your story does not need to be long or polished—a simple experience could help someone else take their next step.
To share your story or find ways to take part, contact info@worldrefrigerationday.org
