Josh Buhler
Josh Buhler obtained a four-year degree in secondary education before ever considering a life in HVAC. Upon graduating from Indiana University, he explored a few different career options, finally realizing his passion for HVAC.
In 2013, Buhler worked for a popular HVAC outfit in town making ductwork and completing deliveries. After three years, Buhler decided he wanted to provide the same type of value to the community that the senior technicians at the company did. So, he enrolled in a nine-month program to learn HVAC. During this time he continued working full-time while attending night classes. He learned everything he could and eventually opened his own company. “Oakland” was named in memory of Buhler’s grandparents, and since its opening has grown into a trusted HVAC provider in Indianapolis.
Opening a thriving HVAC company is one of Buhler’s greatest achievements to date, along with obtaining the HVAC contractor’s license to work in Indianapolis, a test that Buhler said is incredibly tough to pass. In 2024, Buhler also founded Hoosier Trade School in order to provide students with the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in their career of choice.
“Oakland has created an environment that is suitable for the common day working man or woman,” Buhler said. “We developed a company where people want to work, and our techs are happy. I’ve never once spoken of sales quotas or required OT from our team. I believe a solid 8 hours of work 5x a week is sufficient to maintain healthy employment, and we are just happy when the techs are able to go even above and beyond that call. At the end of the day, though, family comes before work. ... I always side with taking care of the techs when it comes down to it — we have an environment where the techs know every day they are appreciated, and I treat each one like my own family.”
