Financial Performance - Net sales for Q4 2024 decreased by 2.9% to $297.7 million compared to $306.6 million in Q4 2023, with the AAON Oklahoma segment experiencing a 16.1% decline year-over-year[3] - Gross profit for Q4 2024 decreased by 30.5% to $77.6 million, representing a gross profit margin of 26.1%, down from 36.4% in the same period last year[4] - Earnings per diluted share in Q4 2024 fell by 46.4% to $0.30, down from $0.56 in Q4 2023[5] - Operating income for Q4 2024 decreased by 53.9% to $29.4 million, with an operating margin of 9.9% compared to 20.8% in Q4 2023[7] - Net income for 2024 was $168,559, a decrease of 5% compared to $177,623 in 2023[18] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $272,231, down 3% from $281,215 in 2023, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 22.7%[25] Backlog and Demand - The company's total backlog increased by 70.0% year-over-year to $867.1 million, driven by strong demand for BASX-branded data center liquid cooling solutions[8] - The AAON Coil Products segment saw a sales increase of 129.9%, benefiting from the production of BASX-branded liquid cooling equipment[3] Capital Expenditures and Investments - Capital expenditures in Q4 2024 increased nearly four-fold to $63.4 million due to investments in the new Memphis facility[8] - Capital expenditures for 2024 were $195,660, significantly higher than $104,294 in 2023, indicating aggressive investment[18] Cash Flow and Working Capital - Cash flows from operating activities in Q4 2024 were impacted by lower net income and increased working capital investments[8] - The company reported net cash provided by operating activities of $192,532, an increase of 21% from $158,895 in 2023[18] Balance Sheet and Financial Ratios - The company has a current ratio of 2.8 and a leverage ratio of 0.57, indicating a strong balance sheet[8] - Total assets increased to $1,175,234, up 25% from $941,436 in 2023[16] - Total current liabilities increased to $174,905, up 38% from $126,749 in 2023[16] - Long-term debt rose to $138,891, compared to $38,328 in 2023, indicating increased leverage[16] - Stockholders' equity increased to $824,582, up 12% from $735,224 in 2023[16] Inventory and Cash Management - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $14,000 from $287,000 in 2023, reflecting a significant reduction[16] - Inventories decreased by 12% to $187,420 from $213,532 in 2023[16] Future Outlook - The company anticipates a significant improvement in margins throughout 2025 as production volumes increase and operational efficiencies are realized[8]

Business Segments and Operations - The company operates through three business segments: AAON Oklahoma, AAON Coil Products, and BASX[19] - The company employs a sales staff of 81 individuals and utilizes approximately 55 independent representatives with 132 offices primarily in the U.S. and Canada[60] - The company has entered into cancellable and non-cancellable contracts with major suppliers for raw materials, mitigating the impact of price fluctuations[72] Product Offerings and Innovation - AAON's flagship products include rooftop units (RTUs) with cooling capacities ranging from 2 to 261 tons and heating capacities from 24,000 to 4,500,000 BTUs[41] - The company utilizes a mass semi-customization strategy to produce highly configurable HVAC equipment[25] - AAON's packaged RTUs achieve an AHRI Certified performance of up to 18.0 SEER2 and 22.8 IEER[43] - The company has developed cutting-edge communication systems for its products, integrating IoT solutions and machine learning to enhance operational efficiencies[81] - The company is developing new controls leveraging machine learning to enhance product efficiency and innovation in the HVAC industry[81] Research and Development - The company emphasizes energy performance, durability, efficiency, and indoor air quality in its R&D efforts[28] - The company has a world-class research and development laboratory, the Norman Asbjornson Innovation Center, to continuously test and improve its products[21] - Research and development expenses were approximately $47.3 million, $43.7 million, and $46.8 million in 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively, highlighting ongoing investment in product innovation[82] - The NAIC research and development facility includes unique capabilities for testing HVAC systems, which positions the company as a technological leader in the industry[76] Market Focus and Customer Base - The company focuses on the commercial, industrial, data center, and cleanroom markets within the HVAC equipment industry[25] - Major customer Texas AirSystems accounted for approximately 16.4% of sales in 2024, up from 12.4% in 2022, showing a growing reliance on key customers[66] - Texas AirSystems accounted for approximately 16.4%, 13.8%, and 12.4% of sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 respectively[66] Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility - Approximately 36% of the company's energy portfolio is derived from renewable sources, with ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the production of non-fossil fuel-powered units[90] - The company recycled over 15,715 tons of metal in 2024, compared to 13,678 tons in 2023 and 14,928 tons in 2022, indicating a commitment to material management and sustainability[93] - The company achieved Platinum level in the Sustainability Alliance Scor3card for both 2024 and 2023, highlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility[89] - The company has maintained a commitment to sustainability, publishing its sixth annual Sustainability report in 2024, which includes long-term targets related to greenhouse gas emissions and material recycling[89] - The company has transitioned to nearly 100% LED lighting in its Tulsa and Longview facilities, leading to significant cost savings and reduced energy consumption[91] Financial Performance and Backlog - The company's backlog as of February 1, 2025, was approximately $842.3 million, indicating firm commitments with minimal risk of cancellation[68] - The backlog as of February 1, 2025, was approximately $842.3 million, with lead times for AAON branded products generally around 10-12 weeks[68] - The company has reported a growing backlog of orders, leading to more constant sales throughout the year rather than being seasonally driven[86] - The company has increased its backlog due to rising demand, leading to more constant sales throughout the year rather than the previous seasonal peaks[86] Workforce and Employment - The company reported a total of 4,812 employees as of February 24, 2025, an increase from 3,856 in 2024 and 3,666 in 2023, reflecting a growth of approximately 24% year-over-year[94] - The company employs 4,812 individuals as of February 24, 2025, an increase from 3,856 in 2024 and 3,666 in 2023, reflecting growth in workforce[94] Regulatory Compliance and Standards - The company’s products are designed to meet regulatory and certification standards from various standard-setting bodies, including AHRI and ISO[29] - The company’s products are designed to comply with various regulatory and certification standards, including AHRI and ISO[29] - The company perceives the new DOE regulations on dedicated outdoor air units as an advantage due to its focus on energy efficiency and superior performance[57] - The company’s products exceed DOE minimum efficiency standards, with some achieving up to 18.0 SEER2 and 22.8 IEER[43] - The company’s products are designed to meet ASHRAE's recommended ambient relative humidity levels of 40%-60%, which are critical for virus inactivation[53] Energy Efficiency Initiatives - The company has increased its focus on high-performance HVAC solutions in response to market trends related to indoor air quality and energy efficiency[61] - The company is actively involved in energy efficiency programs, including a demand response program to reduce energy consumption during peak hours[91] - The company has shifted focus to a wider spectrum of the nonresidential HVAC equipment industry due to market trends related to COVID-19 and energy efficiency[61]

Core Viewpoint - AAON, Inc. has appointed Dr. Matt J. Tobolski as the new CEO effective May 13, 2025, succeeding Gary D. Fields, who will transition to a special advisor role on the Board of Directors [1][3][4] Company Leadership Transition - Dr. Tobolski, currently the president and COO, has been instrumental in the company's reorganization and growth strategy, particularly in data center cooling production capacity [3][5] - Gary D. Fields has led AAON since May 2020, during which time the company's sales have more than tripled and its market capitalization has increased over 500% [7] Strategic Focus - The company aims to strengthen its market position through significant investments in data center cooling, positioning itself for sustained growth [3][4] - Dr. Tobolski emphasizes leveraging the innovative capabilities of both AAON and BASX to enhance the company's industry prominence [4][5] Background of New CEO - Dr. Tobolski co-founded BASX Solutions in 2013, which was acquired by AAON in December 2021, and has a strong background in engineering and manufacturing of HVAC systems [3][5] - His educational qualifications include a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and advanced degrees in structural engineering [5] Background of Outgoing CEO - Gary D. Fields has over 40 years of industry experience and has been pivotal in transforming AAON into a leading enterprise in the HVAC sector [6][7] - He will continue to support the company as a mentor and advisor during the transition period [4][7] Company Overview - AAON, founded in 1988, specializes in high-performance, energy-efficient HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial environments [8] - The company is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and focuses on continuous innovation and sustainability in its product offerings [8]

Core Viewpoint - AAON, Inc. is set to announce its fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results on February 27, 2025, during a scheduled conference call and webcast [1] Group 1: Financial Results Announcement - The quarterly conference call and webcast will take place at 9:00 a.m. EST on February 27, 2025 [1] - Financial results will be released earlier on the same day [1] Group 2: Participation Details - The conference call will be accessible via dial-in for Q&A participation at 1-800-836-8184 [2] - A listen-only webcast is available, requiring registration at the AAON website [2] - A replay of the call will be available on the Company's website the following business day [2] Group 3: Company Overview - AAON, founded in 1988, is a global leader in HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial indoor environments [3] - The Company focuses on designing and manufacturing highly configurable equipment to enhance efficiency, performance, and long-term value [3] - AAON is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, featuring an innovation center and testing lab for continuous advancement in the industry [3]

Company Overview - Aaon (AAON) shares increased by 5.6% to close at $116.60, following a period of 6.2% loss over the past four weeks, indicating a significant recovery in investor sentiment [1] - The company specializes in commercial and industrial HVAC solutions, benefiting from favorable demand trends for data center equipment and a focus on engineered solutions [2] Financial Performance - Aaon is expected to report quarterly earnings of $0.54 per share, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of 3.6%, while revenues are projected to be $326.4 million, an increase of 6.4% from the previous year [3] - The consensus EPS estimate for Aaon has remained unchanged over the last 30 days, suggesting stability in earnings expectations [4] Industry Context - Aaon operates within the Zacks Building Products - Air Conditioner and Heating industry, where another company, Watsco (WSO), reported a 0.5% increase in shares, closing at $484.31, with a 1.7% return over the past month [4] - Watsco's consensus EPS estimate has increased by 0.2% to $2.13, representing a year-over-year change of 3.4%, and it currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [5]

Core Viewpoint - The Zacks Building Products - Air Conditioner & Heating industry is poised for growth due to the energy transition and increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, despite inflationary pressures [1] Industry Overview - The industry includes designers, manufacturers, and marketers of products for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, covering a wide range of equipment and services [2] Trends Influencing the Industry - U.S. administration's pro-environmental initiatives are driving demand for clean energy systems, benefiting companies in the industry [3] - Continuous investments in technology and e-commerce are enhancing customer experience and expanding market reach [4] - Rising costs and regulatory pressures are challenges, but the demand for maintenance and repair services provides stable revenue [5] Industry Performance - The industry ranks 54 in the Zacks Industry Rank, placing it in the top 22% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating positive near-term prospects [6][7] - Aggregate earnings estimates for the industry have increased, reflecting growing analyst confidence in earnings growth potential [8] Stock Market Performance - The industry has outperformed the broader Zacks Construction sector and the S&P 500, with a 57.4% gain over the past year compared to 24% and 28.5% respectively [10] Current Valuation - The industry is trading at a forward P/E ratio of 33.45X, significantly higher than the S&P 500's 22.69X and the sector's 18.17X [12] Company Highlights - **Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (FIX)**: Experienced a 127.7% stock gain over the past year, with a projected earnings growth of 20.8% for 2025 [15] - **AAON, Inc. (AAON)**: Stock gained 85.6% over the past year, with a strong focus on expanding production capacity and a projected earnings growth of 32.2% for 2025 [19] - **The AZEK Company Inc. (AZEK)**: Achieved a 41.9% stock gain over the past year, with expected earnings growth of 20.8% for fiscal 2025, driven by strong residential demand [22]

Group 1 - Global data centre demand is increasing significantly, benefiting various sectors beyond technology, including infrastructure, basic materials, and services [1] - The value chain extends down to mining operations that explore and produce raw materials essential for data centres [1] - The analysis emphasizes the complex relationships between value drivers, capital flows, and price action in financial markets [1] Group 2 - The research covers a wide range of investment securities, including futures and options markets, indicating a comprehensive approach to market analysis [1] - The company represents a diverse cross-section of financial market participants, including speculators, hedgers, and long-term traders [1]

Core Insights - AAON, Inc. is restructuring its executive leadership to enhance support for strategic growth and operational efficiency as new market opportunities arise [1][5] - The company is expanding its production capacity and geographic presence, highlighted by the establishment of a new facility in Memphis [2] - The leadership changes are aimed at better positioning AAON and its subsidiary BASX to capitalize on industry trends related to regulation and sustainability [2][5] Leadership Changes - Stephen Wakefield has been appointed as Executive Vice President & General Manager of the AAON products business unit, while Matt Shaub will serve in the same capacity for the BASX products business unit, both effective January 1, 2025 [2] - Wakefield has been with AAON since 1999 and has extensive experience in operations and engineering, which will support the company's focus on innovation and customer service [3] - Matt Shaub joined AAON in January 2024 and has a strong background in product management and leadership, enhancing the company's product strategies [4] Strategic Focus - The restructuring is part of a broader initiative to align leadership with long-term goals for AAON's product brands, ensuring a customer-focused approach and innovation [5] - Additional executive alignments will enhance global manufacturing efforts and support functions, with key roles assigned to leaders in manufacturing, sales, and marketing [5] - The company aims to maintain best practices in operations, supply chain, and quality to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving business landscape [5] Company Overview - AAON, founded in 1988, is a leader in HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial environments, known for its innovative and efficient equipment [6] - BASX, a subsidiary of AAON, specializes in high-efficiency data center cooling solutions and has a strong commitment to customer service and product quality [7][8]

Group 1 - AAON, Inc. will participate in the UBS Global Industrials & Transportation Conference on December 4, 2024, with key executives including CEO Gary Fields, President and COO Matt Tobolski, and CFO Rebecca Thompson [1] - The management team is scheduled for a 40-minute fireside chat and will also host in-person one-on-one meetings during the event [2] - AAON, founded in 1988, is a global leader in HVAC solutions, focusing on high-performance and energy-efficient products for commercial and industrial environments [3] Group 2 - The company emphasizes its innovative approach to designing and manufacturing highly configurable HVAC equipment, which enhances efficiency, performance, and long-term value for customers [3] - AAON is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where it operates a world-class innovation center and testing lab to advance HVAC technology [3]

Core Insights - AAON, Inc. reaffirms its commitment to the U.S. Department of Energy's Better Buildings Commercial Building Heat Pump Technology Challenge, responding to new regulations with strong partnerships [1][4] - The collaboration with Copeland, Oklahoma State University, Montana State University, and the University of Maryland enhances AAON's capabilities in developing energy-efficient HVAC solutions [2][3] Group 1: Partnerships and Collaborations - Copeland has a 30-year relationship with AAON, providing advanced compressor technology and engineering support crucial for the DOE Challenge [2] - Oklahoma State University contributes research on low global warming potential refrigerants and heat pump system components [2] - Montana State University assists in prototype development, including fan blade design and performance testing [2] - The University of Maryland develops coil technology and software programs that aid in the creation of cold climate air-source heat pumps [3] Group 2: Company Positioning and Strategy - AAON expresses confidence in overcoming challenges through its research and development efforts, supported by its partnerships [4] - The company aims to exceed the objectives set by the DOE, focusing on technological advancements and energy efficiency [4] - Founded in 1988, AAON is recognized as a leader in HVAC solutions, emphasizing customizable equipment for enhanced efficiency and long-term value [4]