Karen grew up in a family of service pipefitters. Although eager to join the trade after high school, she received a less-than-enthusiastic reply to her interest. She worked with her two brothers at their contracting firm prior to finishing her four-year degree and MBA. She realized that there are many ways to make a great living in this industry. With her education, she chose the financial side. Karen worked for Soderlund Bros., Inc., a HVACR contractor for 26 years as the company Controller When the owner decided to retire, she started her own HVACR and Plumbing company, Amalgamated Services, Inc.

She has developed important skills in contractor financial management as well as sales development, service scheduling, fieldwork personnel supervision, union contract negotiation, customer service, collections, and banking relationships. Karen also has participated in numerous trade and professional organizations, serving as an officer and board member in several instances. Her many years in the industry have prepared her well for the task of ownership. Her goals include increasing the outreach into schools to raise awareness about careers in the HVAC industry.