Contractors started out 2017 feeling positive about short-term growth, according to ACCA, which reported its January 2017 Contractor Comfort Index (CCI) scored a 78 — up two points from its January 2016 rating.

Finding ways to ensure America’s next generation of workers develop interest in the skilled trades and want to make careers out of the work is in the best interest of all who are part of HVAC.

"HVAC contractors are discovering how smart glasses can aid their businesses, particularly in the commercial sector."

What the Trump presidency portends for the future is anyone’s guess, but contractors have definite opinions about how their businesses fared in 2016 and what they’re concerned about in 2017.

"In 2015, women comprised 57 percent of the national labor force, according to the DOL; however, only 1.7 percent of the total employed heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration installers and technicians were women. Women represent an untapped resource for the HVACR industry."

HVAC experts have agreed that recruiting mor ewomen to the industry many be part of the solution to the growing labor shortage.

Hiring a new HVAC technician can be extremely difficult, because techs must be equipped with many skills to adequately complete the job and satisfy customers. The problem may lie in the systems you have setup for new hires.

Contractors are constantly looking for ways to build stronger relationships with their technicians as well as train and educate their staffs. The ride-along accomplishes each of these things.

In 2008, the state of Iowa passed statewide legislation requiring all HVAC technicians to be licensed. It’s a measure other states have taken, as well, with each state having unique criteria to determine the steps necessary to acquire such a license.

A skilled trades apprenticeship, specifically within HVAC, prepares up-and-coming technicians for a fulfilling career in a trade that doesn’t get the attention or publicity it so rightly deserves, as nearly everyone who goes through apprenticeship comes out a winner.