4112 Evan Brooks Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70814
MISSION CRITICAL HVAC MANUFACTURER
David Ratcliff is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Safe Air Technology, a global leader in HVAC engineering and manufacturing. The company is dedicated to solving complex challenges and delivering tailored solutions for mission-critical environments—all while consistently exceeding client expectations. With over three decades of experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry, David’s career reflects a rare blend of hands-on technical expertise, strategic leadership, and relentless innovation.
David began his HVAC journey in 1988 with Carrier Air Conditioning, where he specialized in centrifugal, absorption and open drive systems for the Petrochemical market. Over an 8-year tenure, he gained extensive field experience. This formative period provided a strong foundation in complex HVAC systems and industrial operations.
Following his time at Carrier, David transitioned into the highly specialized field of explosion-proof HVAC systems. Over the next 14 years, he advanced through a series of technical, managerial, engineering and sales roles that progressively broadened his expertise and leadership. Starting in mechanical, refrigeration and electrical assembly, he quickly mastered hands-on aspects of system construction and integration, developing a deep technical proficiency in thermal dynamics, electrical systems, and refrigeration.
As he moved into production management, David gained firsthand experience in streamlining manufacturing workflows, implementing quality control procedures, and coordinating multidisciplinary teams. He played a pivotal role in aligning engineering and production efforts to meet stringent industry standards and deadlines. His collaborative work in mechanical, thermodynamics, and electrical engineering designs further sharpened his capabilities in system architecture, compliance, and innovation.
This engineering and operational background laid the groundwork for David's natural progression into customer-facing roles. Leveraging his technical knowledge and leadership experience, he successfully transitioned into business development and sales—first nationally, then internationally. His ability to translate complex engineering solutions into client-focused value propositions enabled him to build strong relationships with customers in diverse markets, including oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and offshore platforms. David's combined command of engineering, operations, and strategic sales has positioned him as a respected authority in the field of HVAC systems on both domestic and global stages.
In 2002, David Ratcliff founded Safe Air Technology with a clear vision: to design and manufacture explosion-proof equipment that not only met but exceeded industry standards for safety, reliability, and performance. Drawing on decades of hands-on engineering, production, and leadership experience, David built the company into a trusted global partner across multiple industries.
By 2019, leveraging the deep technical knowledge and market insight accumulated over his career, David led Safe Air Technology into the rapidly expanding data center and building integrator market. Recognizing the need for advanced, integrated solutions in power distribution and control, he personally engaged with system designers and end-users to identify real-world challenges and unmet needs.
This hands-on approach led to the development and launch of the SAWPAC (Safe Air Wall Packaged Air Conditioner) system—a breakthrough for power distribution centers and motor control center solutions. Engineered to deliver unmatched reliability, integration, and performance, the SAWPAC line set new industry benchmarks and marked Safe Air Technology’s successful entry into a new vertical.
Since the introduction of SAWPAC, Safe Air Technology has experienced rapid growth, with its footprint and market share doubling year over year. Under David’s visionary leadership, the company continues to expand its global reach and innovate across sectors, remaining committed to delivering engineered solutions that safeguard people, property, and productivity in even the most demanding environments.
As Safe Air Technology continues to evolve under David Ratcliff’s visionary leadership, the company stands poised for even greater expansion in the years ahead. With a proven track record of innovation, customer-focused engineering, and global execution, David is strategically positioning Safe Air Technology at the forefront of emerging markets—from advanced data infrastructure and energy efficiency systems to next-generation industrial, mission critical and hazardous environment applications. Driven by a commitment to engineering excellence and a relentless focus on exceeding client expectations, the company is not only meeting the demands of today’s critical industries but also shaping the solutions of tomorrow.
Looking to the future, David remains focused on advancing the company’s capabilities through strategic investments in technology, talent, and international partnerships. His commitment to safety, performance, and engineering excellence continues to drive the development of new product lines and solutions that not only meet the challenges of today but anticipate the demands of tomorrow.
At the heart of Safe Air Technology’s mission is an unwavering dedication to exceeding client expectations in everything it does—from design and production to service and support. This client-first mindset fuels continuous improvement across all operations and ensures that every solution delivered is tailored, reliable, and of the highest quality.
Guided by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a clear vision for sustainable growth, David Ratcliff is ensuring that Safe Air Technology remains a trusted global leader—delivering mission-critical HVAC solutions that protect what matters most, wherever the world demands it.