Gastonia Times

General manager Matthew Ghantt said Rye Heating and Air Conditioning has grown significantly from a start at founder Brad Rye's kitchen table to a thriving enterprise with 30 employees in just six years. Ghantt is excited about the future of the company as it was recently acquired by Ace Hardware.

Ghantt said Rye started the company from his desire to serve the community while spending quality time with his wife and four children, a change from his previous job's demanding schedule. The company has since grown, now embracing a family-oriented culture.

"Over the past two years, I'm proud to say that I have assisted with growing the company by getting higher qualified employees, creating policies and procedures to increase quality, and give the employees a better work environment," he said. "It's truly a family atmosphere."

Rye Heating and Air Conditioning serves Lincoln, Hickory, Denver, Gastonia, Kings Mountain, Belmont, Mt. Holly and surrounding areas. They specialize in servicing, maintenance and replacing residential HVAC. Ghantt said they also perform commercial service, maintenance, installation and residential new construction installations. 

Ghantt joined the team two years ago initially in a sales role but quickly transitioned into an operations manager position. With the growth into 30 employees in six years, Ghantt is hopeful for the future.

"I believe you can expect Rye to become one of the larger, high-quality companies over the next few years," he said.

Ghantt said he was inspired by his father's work in the industry, which made him get involved from a young age. Although Ghantt worked as a firefighter for a while, he decided to take up HVAC work as balancing both jobs became difficult.

"Sticking with HVAC was the best career decision I have made, and it has truly provided a life for my family and I that I never would have dreamed of," Ghantt said.

He said his biggest accomplishment is helping young people learn the trade.

According to the Rye website, Rye Heating and Air is now part of the Ace Hardware family.

"It's all part of an effort to serve more homeowners who are seeking to have projects completed for them by trained professionals from the Helpful brand they trust," according to the website.