Dallas-based HVAC distribution platform Averon Group announced Oct. 13 that it invested in Control Equipment Company, a Utah distributor of HVAC controls, building automation systems and replacement parts. Financial terms were not disclosed.

CEC becomes the third partner company for Averon, which is backed by private equity firm Trinity Hunt Partners. The deal extends the platform into the Intermountain West and strengthens its controls and building automation offering.

CEC’s leadership team will remain in place, with Bob Bair continuing as President.

“This investment allows us to grow our team, expand our product offering, upgrade our systems, and build out our e-commerce capabilities,” Bair said.

Founded in 1954 and based in South Salt Lake, UT, CEC supplies contractors, technicians and other HVAC professionals. Its product portfolio includes boiler controls, variable air volume boxes and dampers, refrigerants, testing equipment and air quality monitoring products. The company also offers hands-on technical training, including Niagara controls classes and product demonstrations.

Averon CEO Troy Vellinga said the region’s growth and customer demographics make it attractive for expansion, with CEC providing a foundation for further development.

Averon announced its launch Feb. 4, alongside its investment in Fenco Supply. The platform’s first investment, in Chicago-area Blackhawk Supply, occurred in June 2025.

Fenco is a multigeneration, family-owned distributor of HVAC equipment, parts and supplies serving contractors and facility managers throughout eastern Tennessee. Its locations span Knoxville, Sevierville, Morristown and Gray. At the time of the investment, Averon said Fenco would retain its established brand and Michael Fennell would continue as President.

Led by Vellinga, Averon is building a national network serving mechanical contractors and facility managers through branch-based and eCommerce channels. Its offerings include HVAC equipment, parts and supplies, as well as building automation, electrical and plumbing products. The platform provides capital, systems and operational support while retaining partner companies’ local expertise and culture.

Averon said it continues to seek partnerships with independent HVAC distributors and providers of adjacent product lines nationwide.