Gastonia Times

Matthew Ghantt, general manager of Rye Heating and Air Conditioning, said the company will continue to grow and keep its main focus on customers and employees, after being acquired by Ace Hardware earlier this month.

"I believe you can expect Rye to become one of the larger, high-quality companies over the next few years," Ghantt told Gastonia Times. "I believe we will increase our service area while doing so. However, the main focus of the business will always be the customers and employees."

The establishment of Rye Heating and Air can be attributed to visionary founder Brad Rye. With a background in management roles within staffing companies, Brad was familiar with the demands of a job that often required him to be away from home for extended periods. Motivated by a desire to both serve the community and create more quality time with his wife and four children, he set out on the journey of entrepreneurship. Although he initially lacked knowledge in heating and air services, he was fortunate to have a supportive friend and mentor who played a pivotal role in helping him establish Rye. What began as a humble endeavor at Brad's kitchen table has, in a remarkably short span of just six years, evolved into the thriving company we see today, boasting a team of 30 dedicated employees.

Ghantt got involved with the company two years ago, when Brad's wife Gina reached out to him. Ghantt initially started in sales, but quickly advanced to the position of operations manager within a few months. Even while assuming managerial responsibilities, he continued to handle sales calls, a dual role he undertook to enhance the business's structure and growth. Over the past two years, he has played a pivotal role in the company's growth. This includes recruiting highly qualified personnel, establishing policies and procedures to elevate quality, and creating a more conducive work environment for the employees.

Rye specializes in residential HVAC services, maintenance, and replacements. The company also offers light commercial services, maintenance, and installations, in addition to handling residential new construction installations.

In August of 2023, Rye was acquired by Ace Hardware, along with a growing list of service companies across the United States, according to the company's website. The company noted that by coming together, they will enhance the customer service for residents in Gaston County and surrounding areas.