Proudly Serving the Greater Tacoma Area for 50 Years and Counting
Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning was founded in 1975 by Jerry and Donna Ohman, who saw an opportunity to bring dependable heating and cooling solutions to the Tacoma community. With a focus on quality work and care for every customer, they built a reputation for service that felt personal and trustworthy.
In the mid-80s, ownership transitioned to their daughters and their husbands—Gayle & Steve, Marsha & Dan, along with Steve’s brother, Mike. This next generation of family leadership continued to expand the company’s presence across the greater Tacoma area while upholding the same values on which it was built.
In 2020, a new ownership group took the lead. Building on three generations of tradition, the new owners lead Narrows Heating with a shared commitment to exceptional service and lasting solutions.
As Narrows Heating celebrates 50 years, the company reflects on a legacy of hard work, meaningful relationships and a deep-rooted connection to the community. Though much has changed over the decades, the mission remains the same: to provide quality installations and premier client experiences with care, integrity and pride.
To the many clients who have made the past five decades possible—thank you. Narrows Heating is proud of its history and looking forward to the future.
Our Leadership
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Chris is a proud member of the third generation leading Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning. Born and raised in Tacoma, he attended Bellarmine Prep (Class of 92) and received his degree at Santa Clara University in California.Chris returned to Tacoma and joined the Narrows team in 2003. He is grateful to work in the same community he grew up in—and even prouder to help carry the family business into its 50th year. For him, running into clients around town isn’t just part of the job—it’s a reminder that trust, relationships and good work really do matter.
When he’s not at work, he’s usually chasing dirt or snow. You’ll find him on a mountain bike trail or carving up the slopes.
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Gretchen brings more than three decades of experience to her role at Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning. As a proud member of the third generation in the family business, she helps lead day-to-day operations—overseeing customer service, finances, and HR with a steady, people-first approach.
What Gretchen values most is working with a team that shows up every day with integrity, honesty, and a real commitment to taking care of customers. She takes pride in the long-standing relationships Narrows has built over the years—and in being part of a company where doing things the right way still matters.
Outside of work, Gretchen enjoys hiking in the mountains, spending time on the water, practicing Pilates, and traveling whenever she gets the chance—especially if it means good food, new views, or time to recharge.
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Jim Still brings nearly four decades of HVAC experience to his role as President and Commercial Division Manager at Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning. With more than 30 years spent at Narrows, Jim has helped shape the company’s commercial department through steady leadership, deep industry knowledge and a strong commitment to client relationships.What Jim values most is the team around him. He takes pride in the hard work and collaboration that go into every project, and enjoys the challenge that comes with each unique job. Whether he’s working with a long-time client or a new partner, building strong relationships is at the center of what he does.
Outside of work, Jim is at home both literally and figuratively on Lake Tapps, where he enjoys entertaining family and spending time with his grandkids. A lifelong fan of water sports, he’s happiest cycling, boating or surfing, whether on the lake or out on the ocean. He also enjoys cooking and traveling, especially when it means sharing good food and time with the people he loves.
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Nick brings a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to his role at Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning, balancing professional focus with a deep commitment to family and community. A married father of two boys, he stays active outside of work by coaching youth lacrosse, skiing in the winter and spending time outdoors fishing with his family.
He’s especially passionate about giving back through youth athletics, helping to guide and encourage the next generation both on and off the field. Whether he’s leading a project at work or leading a practice on the sidelines, Nick brings energy, care and a steady sense of purpose to everything he does.
What Sets Us Apart
- Our Promise – Narrows Heating & Air Conditioning is more than a service provider — we’re a trusted partner. With a commitment to care, reliability and energy-efficient solutions, we build lasting relationships that prioritize comfort, quality of life and peace of mind.
- Trane Comfort Specialist – As Pierce County’s oldest Trane Comfort Specialist, we meet Trane’s high standards for customer satisfaction and ongoing education, ensuring efficient, reliable, and comfortable systems.
- Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor – As a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor, we have reached the highest level of accreditation from Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating. Factory trained in Mitsubishi’s entire line of innovative products, we are dedicated to delivering expert installations by staying up-to-date on Mitsubishi technology as it evolves.
- Quality Technicians – Our experienced team undergoes background checks, drug tests, and continuous training to stay updated with the latest HVAC technologies, ensuring expert service every time.
- 100% Performance Guarantee – We offer a 100% Performance Guarantee on new Trane systems. If the system doesn’t meet the specified capacity within the first year, we’ll resolve the issue or refund the full equipment price.
- Industry Leader – With nearly 50 years in business, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and exceptional service, recognized by the BBB and Puget Sound Consumer Checkbook.