The American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) marks a significant milestone in its 137-year history with the appointment of Nancy Simoneau as Board Chair. As President of Groupe Simoneau, she becomes both the first woman and first international member to hold this distinguished position. This appointment coincides with another notable advancement for women in the industry—the selection of Carrie Murakami of Miura America Company as the inaugural recipient of the Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) Rising Star Award.
In this candid conversation, Simoneau discusses her path from working in her father’s service company to leading Groupe Simoneau and assuming her new role at ABMA. Her perspective offers valuable insights into the industry’s evolution.
Please provide a little background on your career.
I earned a minor in Politics from Ottawa University and a Bachelor’s in Business from Hautes Études Commerciales of Montreal, and I proudly hold a CPA. My career in the boiler industry began during university when I worked with my dad—an experienced boilermaker who had started his own service company in 1984—to help pay for my studies. After graduation, in the midst of the 1992 recession and limited opportunities in the big accounting firms, I asked my dad if I could start a manufacturing division. As he had confidence in me being one of the first in the family to get a university degree, he supported my vision. That decision not only set me on a new path but also sparked my passion for this trade and the people within it—a journey that has now lasted almost 38 years.
Please introduce us to the company you lead, Group Simoneau, its products, and markets it serves.
Group Simoneau is a 40-year-old company dedicated to supporting our customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their boilerooms. We’re fully integrated—from our hands-on service department with skilled combustion technicians, boilermakers, and pipefitters, to our innovative team of engineers designing not just boilers but complete, balanced systems built to last. At our core, we value robustness, reliability, and high efficiency, and our agility is equally central to our approach. In addition to our comprehensive solutions, we offer a rental fleet to provide our customers with flexible options that meet their evolving needs. Today, we operate from four locations: Hudson, WI; Toronto, ON; Boucherville, QC; and Drummondville, QC.
Please share why Groupe Simoneau is a member of ABMA.
ABMA is more than an association—it’s a community of industry professionals who genuinely care about the future of our field. From my very first meeting, I was impressed by the collective commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable practices. While we sometimes compete in the marketplace, as members we learn from each other and work together to meet stringent safety and quality standards. The training, information, and relationships built through ABMA are invaluable, not only for us as industry players but ultimately for the safety and efficiency of our end users.
Why do you feel to more than just an ABMA member but take a leadership role?
Serving others has always been a core value for me. When my father left the company at age 53, shortly after 9/11, he told me “whatever you do with the company, and if you put it in the drain, I will still love you.” That trust and responsibility drove me to buy the company from him, ensuring his assets were secured while beginning my own journey as an entrepreneur. I believe that meaningful change happens when you’re in the midst of decision-making, learning from your peers, and contributing to solutions. Taking on a leadership role is my way of giving back to an industry that has given me so much and ensuring that we continue to grow and improve together.
Could you describe your evolving involvement with ABMA?
My ABMA journey started as a co-chair of the boiler group, where I collaborated with a team to shape our meeting agendas and select dynamic speakers. That role led to my election to the board, where I served for five years before moving into the positions of Vice-Chair and now Chair. Along the way, I’ve had the honor of working with inspiring colleagues like Shaunica Jayson and Tricia Staible to launch WIBI (Women in the Boiler Industry). This experience has been a powerful reminder of the strength we find in collaboration and mutual support.
As the newly appointed ABMA chair, could you describe what this accomplishment means for you?
It feels almost surreal and is truly an honor. I am deeply grateful for the openness and support of the entire industry. Sometimes, when a door opens unexpectedly, you just have to step through it—and I’m thankful I had the opportunity. This role is a chance to serve and contribute to an industry I’m passionate about, and I remain humbled by the trust placed in me.
Could you describe your primary goals during your tenure as chair?
In a recent conversation with Scott Lynch, I shared my mantra: “Every Member Matters—Ears Open, Hearts Engaged, and Ready to Serve.” My goal is to ensure that at every level—especially here on the board—we remain attentive, empathetic, and dedicated to supporting every member. ABMA’s 137-year history is a testament to the power of community, and I’m committed to nurturing that spirit for the future.
In your mind, what are some of the greatest challenges facing the boiler industry? How do you see ABMA and its members addressing these challenges?
We’re living in a time of rapid change, with challenges such as climate change prompting us to rethink our strategies. Our customers are asking what’s next, and it’s up to us to innovate with both common sense and efficiency—reducing waste and maximizing energy savings. Additionally, the industry is facing consolidation and the critical need for effective succession planning. Under Scott Lynch’s leadership, ABMA has launched BILT (Boiler Industry Leaders of Tomorrow) to nurture emerging talent. Their upcoming Forum in Columbus, OH on April 8 & 9 is a promising step toward ensuring that our industry continues to evolve with fresh ideas and strong leadership.
What personal and professional learning experiences do you bring to this new role, and how will they inform your service?
Over the years, serving on various boards has taught me a great deal about governance and the importance of an inclusive, direct leadership style. My involvement with organizations like YPO and the London Business School has reinforced that continuous learning is key to progress. I also remain engaged as a co-champion of the YNG (Young Next Generation) program, and I’m committed to using these experiences to serve our community with humility, energy, and a readiness to listen and learn.
We have previously interviewed you about the Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) group you helped launch through ABMA. Do want to share an update on WIBI and your passion for recognizing and mentoring future female leaders in the boiler industry?
As I’ve grown in this industry, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that women face in climbing to leadership roles in a traditionally male-dominated field. Women bring something different to this industry—more empathy, sensitivity, and a customer-centric approach that complements the technical expertise of our engineers. We’re not trying to change ourselves 180 degrees, but rather contribute our natural strengths to create more balanced workplaces. It’s important to note that WIBI isn’t about excluding men—in fact, I openly acknowledge that many men opened doors for me in this male-dominated industry. What’s exciting is seeing more women coming out of the shadows saying “Hey, me too, I want to be part of this,” and company leaders encouraging their daughters and female employees to participate. Our industry offers excellent opportunities with high wages, and I dream of seeing more women joining us in various roles, from engineers to welders and service technicians. Through WIBI, we’re building a community that encourages women to think bigger and understand they deserve to be treated properly. Our first WIBI Symposium in October in Minneapolis, MN promises to be an exceptional event and a significant step toward fostering more inclusive leadership in our industry.
If readers are interested in learning more about you or Group Simoneau, where should they turn?
We’re active on LinkedIn, and you can visit our website at www.groupesimoneau.com. Feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected].