Kyla Robinson
Like many others, Kyla Robinson joined the HVAC industry without ever having the intention to join the HVAC industry. When she made the decision to leave her last job, she applied to any company that would give her to opportunity to prove she was a good hire.
“When I was offered this job, I remember asking ‘Do I really want to work in HVAC?’” Robinson said.
Two years later, she’s not only here, loving every challenge that comes with working in HVAC, but in her current role has successfully facilitated their front-line management program to over 130 leaders in the company.
“This program meets for 10 weeks and requires commitment to growth by our leaders.” Robinson said. “While I know it is a hefty time commitment, I also know that application of the content we cover will help our leaders live a better-balanced life. Hearing feedback on how they have taken back their time with family or find time to take care of themselves makes it all worth it.”
Robinson also launched a Women in Leadership training series as part of ARS’s Diversity and Inclusion Initiative.
“Twenty-five percent of our employees are female, and I know that there are many challenges women face in leadership positions, but also in a male-dominated industry,” Robinson said. “Our training is focused on empowering women to own their seat at the table. (An even bigger accomplishment is the support of the male counterparts in the company when I share about this training initiative.)”
Sometimes in the HVAC industry, training can be brushed off. Some people might not understand its need, or they might understand the need, but they don’t think they are in need of any training — they already know how to do it.
“What we frequently find is that there is a good way to train, but also a not good way or perhaps no way to train as well,” Robinson said. “We often joke that sometimes training looks like, ‘Here’s the door and the light switch to your office — go!’ That’s not training. My goal is to make sure people understand that. As I continue in my career in HVAC, I plan to continue to provide training and support to make individuals feel successful in their role.”
