BEHIND THE BUILD: AIR DESIGN SYSTEMS
When Chicago selected Bally’s to build its world-class casino and hotel, the vision extended far beyond entertainment. The project set out to reflect the city itself—its people, its neighborhoods, and its commitment to inclusive economic growth. To bring that vision to life, Bally’s selected the Chicago Community Builders Collective (CCBC), an eight-firm joint venture built on collaboration, equity, and community representation.
As one of the largest construction joint ventures in Chicago’s history, CCBC was built with a majority of minority- and women-owned partner firms. That intentional structure creates real opportunity—opening doors for diverse small businesses to participate in a mega project, scale their operations, and build lasting talent pipelines.
The “Behind the Build” series highlights the individuals and companies that are helping to make the Bally’s Chicago Casino project a beacon of inclusion and partnership, like Air Design Systems.
Founded in 1977 by Patricia Hickey, Air Design Systems is the largest woman-owned HVAC company in the Chicagoland area. Today, the company remains family-led, with Hickey’s daughter, Vice President and Co-Owner Bridget Chobnacki, her husband, General Manager Jacob Chobnacki, and Chief Growth Officer Matthew Mele playing key roles in the company’s continued growth.
On the Bally’s Chicago Casino project, their work extends beyond HVAC. The team is deeply committed to creating opportunities for minority-owned businesses and supporting the next generation of construction professionals. Through mentorship and hands-on experience, they are helping bridge the gap for high school graduates entering the trades, keeping them engaged, inspired, and connected to the industry.
Bridget Chobnacki, Vice President and Co-Owner, Air Design Systems.
When did you decide to join your mother’s business?
Bridget: I have been working for the company since I was in the 8th grade, vacuuming the offices, cleaning, and answering the phones on Saturdays. I was in diapers when Mom started the business out of our laundry room. I watched my mom go through many ups and downs firsthand, so to be where we are 48 years later is amazing. Q: What does a career path into construction safety look like?
Taylor: I studied occupational health and safety at Illinois State University, but there are a lot of paths.
Frank: I came from the trades as a carpenter. My safety director saw something in me and gave me an opportunity to come to the safety department, and here I am 20 years later.
Sheryl: I started out in the Air Force and was able to transition into construction.
What is Air Design Systems’ scope on the Bally’s project?
Jacob: We are fabricating and installing the ductwork for the entire hotel in partnership with three certified minority business enterprises, EOS Mechanical, J.C. Insulation (both are also veteran-owned), and RDs HVAC, as well as Heatmasters Mechanical, a family-owned business.
How is Air Design Systems preparing the next generation of construction workers?
Matthew: We are involved in a monthly mentorship program with ACE Amandla Charter High School in Chicago Lawn. We've developed a pilot program to create job opportunities with our partners for ACE graduates. We've also been partnering with HIRE360 and Revolution Workshop to not just make it an Air Design Systems-focused initiative but to create pathways across the trades. We’re also introducing roles like a safety-focused position, where participants work directly with our safety coordinator, as well as assistant project management opportunities.
Jacob: We wanted to get to know these students and expose them to careers in construction. There are about 25 ACE students in our mentorship program. Our focus has been transitioning students from high school as they’re waiting for an apprenticeship slot to open or thinking about college. Those years right after high school are critical. If students aren’t connected to the industry, it’s easy for them to potentially lose interest. If they’re waiting for a union apprenticeship, we want them on site, learning and experiencing different aspects of construction, so they stay engaged and excited about their future.
How is the Bally’s project contributing to your business success?
Matthew: Our goal is to have legendary workmanship throughout Chicago. We're able to achieve this goal through a project like this that aligns with our values. From a reputation standpoint, it further cements us as the leader in ventilation work in Chicago. We're also growing our relationships with general contractors and expanding connections with subcontractor partners. We're very excited about the opportunities and partnerships that we're creating.
How does Air Design Systems foster a safe, inclusive and respectful environment?
Matthew: Our culture is 100% inclusive. We’re intentional about working with the right partners, people who care about one another and operate with mutual respect. The Culture of CARE at CCBC aligns closely with our values and how we do business, and we’re proud to be a part of that commitment to embed belonging in the workplace.
Has your business model changed since your mother founded the company?
Bridget: My mom established a foundation centered on creating opportunities and growing through hard work. Over the years, we've often been the underdog. This pushed us to start collaborating with minority-owned companies. It has been really refreshing to focus on relationships and surround yourself with a team, because that's what makes us stronger as a company. It’s helped us lean into what we value, and as a second-generation owner, that’s something I’m really proud of.