This workshop took the unique approach of gathering HVAC educators and presenters from all across the country and allowing them to share thoughts, opinions, ideas, and lessons to help shape the future of the industry.

The skills gap is just one topic frequently discussed within the HVAC industry, and reasonable discussion and a healthy dialogue between contractors can only benefit everyone moving forward. Your means of contributing may differ from the guy across the street, and that is perfectly fine.

Readers answer the question: "With the skilled labor shortage, are HVAC systems destined to become plug-and-play appliances?"

Whether it’s creating a scholarship, partnering with a local organization, or encouraging students to pursue mechanical trades opportunities; there are no excuses to be made. It’s time to get with the program — a scholarship program.

This technology allows technicians to enhance their skills and abilities while, at the same time, granting customers an easier understanding of the work being done inside their homes or commercial spaces.

Given current demographic trends, finding skilled workers is becoming increasingly more difficult in the plumbing, heating, and cooling industries. 

Let’s face it — the HVACR industry simply isn’t portrayed as the vital and necessary component of modern living it should be. It’s not portrayed as being sexy or fun, but the truth is the HVACR industry truly is vital to our way of life. 

When a couple of do-it-yourself (DIY) homeowners cited how easy it was to install their respective equipment themselves and how little skill was needed, it begged the question: With the current skilled labor shortage, are HVAC systems destined to become plug-and-play appliances?

The latest forum was held Feb. 18 in Atlanta and was highlighted by Drusilla Hufford, director, stratospheric protection division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), who gave a national and global regulatory update, as well as Rajan Rajendran, vice president, systems innovation center and sustainability, Emerson Climate Technologies, who briefed attendees on refrigerant and energy regulations.

HVAC contractors nationwide are struggling to locate and hire qualified technicians. And, while many complaints have been uttered, not everyone is actively trying to solve the problem.