Daikin Applied wrapped up its leadership off-site with a Build-A-Bike® charity team building event in Owatonna, MN. The event took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Owatonna and brought together thirty members of the company’s digital leadership team after a full day of meetings and training sessions. Instead of ending the evening with another presentation or dinner, the group jumped into a fast-moving competition that mixed teamwork, problem-solving, and a meaningful community impact. By the end of the night, the team had assembled bicycles for local children through Big Brothers Big Sisters and the United Way.
Daikin Applied provides advanced HVAC solutions for large commercial properties, including hospitals and schools. The company focuses on air quality, energy efficiency, and innovative technology solutions. Its products and services are distributed through a global network of sales, service, and parts offices. Daikin Applied operates under its parent company, Daikin Industries, Ltd., the world’s largest HVAC manufacturer. Together, the organization serves customers in more than 150 countries and operates over 90 production sites worldwide.
Daikin Applied Leadership Team Trades Meetings for Bike Building Fun in Owatonna, Minnesota
After spending most of the day in sessions and workshops, the Build-A-Bike® gave the group a completely different way to connect. Most of the attendees traveled in from Plymouth, while several remote employees joined from other locations. The activity immediately shifted the mood in the room as teams started racing through challenges and working together to finish their bikes. Some groups focused on speed, while others leaned into strategy, but every team brought plenty of energy into the competition.
The room stayed loud and lively throughout the evening. Coworkers encouraged one another, celebrated small victories, and laughed through the occasional assembly mistake. Since many participants normally connect through screens and virtual meetings, the hands-on format helped create more natural conversations and stronger connections. The event felt less like another scheduled meeting activity and more like a shared experience everyone could genuinely enjoy together.
The final bike giveaway brought a more personal side to the event. Children arrived to receive the completed bicycles, and team members helped adjust seats, steady handlebars, and cheer the kids on during their first rides around the room. That moment completely changed the atmosphere. What started as a competitive activity ended with a reminder of why the event mattered in the first place. The donated bikes will help provide transportation, independence, and memorable experiences for local children and families supported through Big Brothers Big Sisters and the United Way.
We give a big thank you to Daikin Applied for supporting local families through this meaningful charity team building event. We’d also like to thank Big Brothers Big Sisters and the United Way for the incredible work they continue to do throughout the Owatonna community.