In 1989, JCEM constructed the HVAC Systems and Controls Laboratory in off-campus leased space. This lab was a unique facility for the HVAC community that allowed dynamic testing of complete HVAC and building systems. (See CUEngineering, Number 6, pp. 20-21.) In 1992, Karl and his business, the Gustave A. Larson Company, a major wholesale air conditioning and refrigeration company in Milwaukee, generously agreed to support the construction of a building systems laboratory on campus so that the JCEM Laboratory could relocate to a more convenient location.
In addition to the Larsons' gift for the lab, they have created the Karl G. A. Larson Family Fund for HVAC Research to support graduate students doing research in topics related to HVAC systems.