It was my privilege to have lunch the other day with 8 young men. They will soon graduate high school after having studied HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration) for the past 4 years. They are sharp, well-trained, and ready to enter the workforce. During lunch, I tried to gain some insight into what makes the next generation tick. Here are some of my questions – the answers both surprised and inspired me.
WHY STUDY HVACR?
This is not an easy trade. As one graduate put it, “it didn’t take me long to figure out that wherever I went, the air conditioning wasn’t working.” Yes, it’s often a hot and uncomfortable job, working in a hot attic while bringing comfort to others. But the group was united as to their motivation: they all enjoy the hands-on work, and the experience of serving others, of “making the customers smile.”
AREN’T YOU ALL ABOUT TECHNOLOGY?
As you might expect, these young men (there are some ladies, also, but not in this class) are connected with all the technology. But they are far from the stereotypical teen, addicted to their phones and tablets. They see these as essential tools used to enhance their work and keep them connected with one another and their supervisors. Digital connectivity provides instant access to manufacturer databases necessary to work effectively. With a laptop computer or tablet, they can tap into a home air conditioner or commercial chiller to download service history and diagnostic information. Digital gages measure temperature, pressure, and other data with precision – they are willing to purchase the best technology to make accurate diagnoses and precision repairs.
WHAT WAS YOUR GREATEST EXPERIENCE?
This group is all about service to the community. Their enthusiastic and unanimous answer was, working on a home for Habitat for Humanity (see related article). They worked alongside seasoned professionals of all trades to complete a home in record time. Pride was evident as each told about their own area of responsibility – freon lines, ducts, grilles, equipment set. The greatest thrill was that of seeing the joyful tears of the family who will live in the home they helped build.
WHAT DOES MY GENERATION NEED TO KNOW?
After only a few seconds of thought, one young man replied, “we are the future, and we are here.” That is true in every respect. The HVAC industry has changed dramatically in recent years. This class is trained on the latest equipment and application. These young men and women are ready to work, and will soon be maintaining the comfort in our homes and businesses. The brightest and best will be working on coolers, chillers, air conditioners, and commercial refrigeration systems older than they are.
COMPLETE COMFORT SUPPORTS EDUCATION AND TRAINING
We will always send you our best. Complete Comfort supports high school and journeyman level apprenticeship, as well as other educational programs through the Palm Beach Air Conditioning Contractors Association. Continuing education is part of the trade at all levels – for entering apprentices and veteran mechanics alike. You can be assured, the technician who arrives your home is trained and equipped to meet your needs. Call today (561) 529-6262.
