Training and Education for Contractors

Heat Pump Hype to Hands-On Reality: The HVAC Skills Gap Contractors Can’t Ignore

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

As heat pumps and other advanced systems become more common, the gap between what’s possible and what’s practical will depend largely on workforce readiness.

Addressing the AI Training Gap in HVAC

chrisgray@achrnews.com (Chris Gray) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

A survey from BuildOps shows the AI training gap present in HVAC. In this Q&A, learn how to overcome this gap, which can simultaneously address the workforce shortage.

Employer-Directed Skills Act Could Reimburse HVAC Contractors for New Hire Training

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Federal workforce dollars could soon flow directly to HVAC employers instead of training institutions

Closing the Skills Gap, One HVAC Technician at a Time

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0500

As the HVAC labor shortage intensifies, contractors and manufacturers are investing in training programs to prepare technicians for the field.

6 Ways to More Effectively Provide In-Field Training for New HVAC Technicians

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Training HVAC technicians in the field does not have to come at the expense of productivity or day-to-day operations.

Beyond PowerPoint: Smarter, Gamified Ways to Train HVACR Technicians

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:00:35 -0500

Not every technician learns the same way, so why are they still being trained as if they do? By combining all types of learning styles, meeting techs where they are at, and gamifying activities, technicians retain more, apply more in the field, and feel more confident in their skills.

Rheem Reveals Sustainability Goals for 2035

chrisgray@achrnews.com (Chris Gray) — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:00:00 -0500

Rheem is raising the bar on sustainability with a new commitment to train more than a million HVAC contractors and industry professionals worldwide over the next decade.

From Jobsite to Instagram: How HVACR Influencers Are Recruiting Gen Z

mattjachman@achrnews.com (Matt Jachman) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Three young HVACR influencers talk about what they do on social media platforms to interest young people in HVACR.

How Contractors Can Help the UA Recruit 30,000 Technicians — and Build Their Own Pipeline

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0500

The United Association’s push for 30,000 new HVACR professionals isn’t just about training — it’s about partnership. Contractors who engage with local trade programs and advisory committees are finding early access to the next generation of skilled technicians.

HVAC Q&A Episode 10: Ductless Installs

mariataylor@achrnews.com (Maria Taylor) — Mon, 12 May 2025 17:00:00 -0400

In this video, experts from Carrier, METUS, and Friedrich share advice on what to do — and what to avoid — during ductless installs.

The Side Effects of Minimal Training on HVAC-R Businesses

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Want to avoid costly mistakes? Ensure employees have all the training they need.

Teaching A2Ls: A Guide for Refrigeration Instructors

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0400

As A2Ls become more popular, students and technicians need to be trained on how to handle these mildly flammable refrigerants with confidence.

Education: Keeping Up With the Times in 2025

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0500

As technology and the industry as a whole continue to evolve at a rapid rate, the education surrounding it must as well. Educators must also work to ensure they are meeting industry demands, have enough training to go around, and that they are aiding in securing recruits.

The Industry Cares More About Certifications Than Homeowners Do

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0500

It doesn’t really matter how important homeowners think these certifications are, because the HVACR industry knows their actual importance. They build confidence, ensure technicians stay up-to-date, and build trust.

Exploring Electrification, Decarbonization, & the Power of Air-Source Multi-Pipe Systems

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Watch this on-demand webinar presented by Trane to learn how decarbonization goals are driving the shift to all-electric, low-carbon buildings with hydronic heat pumps and multi-pipe systems.

Why CO₂ Refrigeration Training is a Critical Investment for HVACR Contractors

woerpelh@bnpmedia.com (Herb Woerpel) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The data paints a promising future; however, the question remains: who’s going to install and maintain all of these R-744 systems?

Detect and Protect: Everything Techs Need to Know About RDSs

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Starting in 2025, most new comfort cooling systems will use lower-GWP, mildly flammable refrigerants, which include a safety feature called the refrigerant detection system (RDS), which detects leaks and can be factory or field installed.

Using A2Ls in Commercial Refrigeration Equipment

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

Technicians must be trained to handle A2L refrigerants safely, using proper equipment, following safety guidelines, and understanding risks to prevent injuries.

Creating the Talent You Need by Opening Your Own Training Academy

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0500

To successfully open their own training facility, contractors have to thoughtfully decide on a curriculum, find or design a space that can house students and faculty plus all the needed equipment to train, secure the necessary finances, hire a credible lead instructor, and market it.

6 Essential Steps for Teaching CO₂ Refrigeration

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

CO₂ refrigeration systems demand both classroom knowledge and hands-on experience, which is why blending theory with practice creates top-notch technicians.

HVAC Q&A Episode 3: What Contractors Need To Know About RDS Field Installs

mariataylor@achrnews.com (Maria Taylor) — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Since A2L refrigerants are designated as mildly flammable, safety features like refrigerant detection systems (RDSs) are being incorporated into new residential/light commercial ducted split systems that contain more than 4 pounds of A2L refrigerant. Here’s what HVAC technicians need to know about installing those RDS in the field.

Finding the Right Trainers for Gen Z

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400

The most successful trainers are those who realize just how to connect with Gen Z.

How to Train the Trainers Who Will Prepare Gen Z for HVAC Careers

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The most successful trainers will realize that the relationship Gen Z has with technology fits right in with the present mindset of the HVACR industry.

How to Sell More Indoor Air Quality

bellolih@bnpmedia.com (Hannah Belloli-Oster) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

If an HVAC contractor possesses knowledge pertaining to IAQ solutions and how to approach the subject with a homeowner, they are in a good spot to sell the equipment.

Basic Steps For HVAC Coil Cleaning

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Cleaning coils is a fairly simple task, but one that plays an important role in keeping a unit running strong.

LG Opens New HVAC Training Academy

Fri, 17 May 2024 16:00:00 -0400

The Massachusetts facility will provide lectures and hands-on laboratory experiences led by seasoned LG instructors.

Students and Employers Give HVAC school an A+

danv@seekcg.com (Dan Vastyan) — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Passion for the HVAC trades are still alive and well, the challenge is encouraging the next generation to come forward.

The NEWSMakers Podcast: HVACR Education

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Ferris State professor Eric Quilitzsch is a guest on the podcast to let us know what is new in the HVACR education segment of the industry.

Free Natural Refrigerant Training Summit

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

NASRC will offer free comprehensive CO₂ and propane refrigeration training at its Natural Refrigerant Training Summit.

Advice for HVAC's Next Generation

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400

Speaking to several high school students at AHR, David Richardson offered some advice and wisdom that he’s gathered over his career.