Richardson, Texas – September 13, 2026 -- Trey Thomas-Piazza, the first-ever franchisee of Service Experts, has been named a 2026 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA), marking a milestone for the residential HVAC company's year-old franchise system.
Service Experts launched franchising in 2025 after three decades as a corporate-owned business
Thomas-Piazza, who previously served as General Manager of the company's Tulsa market after years in maintenance, installation and operations leadership, became the system's inaugural franchisee when the program launched. His transition gave Service Experts an early test case for refining franchise infrastructure while maintaining continuity for employees, customers and vendor partners in the market he already managed.
Network expands to five franchisees and 16 territories within first year
Since its 2025 launch, Service Experts' franchise system has grown to five franchisees operating across 16 territories nationwide. The company is continuing to recruit entrepreneurs for its national platform in the residential HVAC sector.
IFA will honor Thomas-Piazza at its Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., Sept. 14-16
The IFA's Franchisee of the Year award recognizes owners for business performance, community contribution and support of fellow franchisees within the association's member network. Nick Ridgway, Vice President of Franchise Development for Service Experts, said Thomas-Piazza's understanding of the business, people and systems helped establish the standard for franchisees who followed. IFA President and CEO Matt Haller said recipients exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit central to franchising while creating jobs and supporting their communities.