Sponsored by:
The 60th anniversary of Comfort-Air Engineering Inc. and Primo Plumbing Inc. (Freund Enterprises Inc.) represents more than a significant milestone; it reflects a journey marked by dedication to innovation and a deep-rooted commitment to the San Antonio community. This journey, which commenced in 1964, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Freund and Wurzbach families in the HVAC and plumbing sectors.
The story of Comfort-Air Engineering began with the vision of John and Robert Freund, recent graduates in mechanical engineering from The University of Texas at Austin. Fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit and a drive to serve, they established a business that would eventually become synonymous with quality and excellence in the HVAC industry.
In its early years, Comfort-Air Engineering faced numerous challenges typical of new ventures — from securing capital to carving out a niche in a competitive market. However, it was the company’s unwavering commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction that set it apart, solidifying its reputation in air conditioning, heating and cooling solutions.
A significant milestone in the company’s history was its involvement in the HemisFair ’68 project, marking a transition from a local small business to an industry leader. This growth, characterized by methodical planning, allowed for the gradual inclusion of more family members, with Scott Freund joining in 1991 and Tom Freund in 1992.
The turn of the century brought a new era of leadership as the second generation stepped up. In 2001, Matthew and Patrick Freund, along with Scott, Tom and Andrea Wurzbach, took the helm, infusing the business with new ideas while maintaining the family’s core values and ethos. Their leadership led to expanded services and broader horizons.
In 2007, Comfort-Air Engineering responded to the evolving needs of the community by expanding into plumbing with the establishment of Primo Plumbing. This expansion was not merely about growth but was a commitment to providing comprehensive solutions in HVAC, plumbing, heating and cooling to San Antonio.
Today, as the company prepares to introduce the third generation of leadership with Clint Wurzbach, Comfort-Air Engineering’s story is one of pride and optimism. Evolving from a modest startup to a major player in the HVAC and plumbing industries, the company’s commitment to the San Antonio community has remained unwavering. It has expanded its services north of San Antonio and adapted to technological advancements and economic changes, always focusing on the best ways to serve the community.
Central to the company’s success are its core values: family environment, self-motivation, team orientation, grit and tenacity, and protecting its reputation. These principles have guided Comfort-Air Engineering through its six-decade journey, ingrained in every aspect of its business operations.
In 2022, under the leadership of Lina Rugova, Comfort-Air Engineering launched the “Progress to Success” program. This innovative program aims to usher in a new generation of skilled technicians in HVAC and plumbing, offering San Antonio’s youth a unique opportunity to start a career in these trades. The program, emphasizing hands-on learning and practical experience, allows young adults to earn while they learn, starting at competitive wages with benefits.
The “Progress to Success” program is more than vocational training; it’s an embodiment of the company’s commitment to nurturing local talent and building a skilled workforce for the future. This initiative contributes not only to individual growth but also to the strengthening of San Antonio’s economic and social fabric.
As Comfort-Air Engineering and Primo Plumbing celebrate their 60th anniversary, they look forward to continuing their journey of service, innovation and community engagement. Understanding the challenges and opportunities ahead, including a potential recession in 2024, the company is prepared to navigate these with resilience and agility.
Committed to aligning their HVAC and plumbing services with the latest technological innovations and environmental considerations, Comfort-Air Engineering and Primo Plumbing are excited to continue serving the San Antonio community, upholding their commitment to quality, integrity and customer satisfaction. They invite the community to celebrate this significant milestone and be part of their bright and promising future.
