AHR Trending Topic
Workforce Development
Addressing escalating workforce shortages and training gaps in HVACR
The skilled trades are facing a critical labor shortage. As an aging workforce exits the industry faster than new professionals enter, the gap continues to widen. This challenge is further intensified by rapidly evolving regulations and increasingly complex training requirements, placing greater demands on the existing workforce to uphold industry standards. Additionally, HVACR engineers are retiring at a faster rate than new engineers are entering the field, as fewer mechanical engineering graduates specialize in HVACR—resulting in a growing talent pipeline shortage. To address these challenges, the industry must work together to promote HVACR career opportunities to the next generation while ensuring ongoing training and development for those already in the field.
What industry leaders are saying about Workforce Development
We need to demonstrate how our work directly impacts indoor environmental quality, climate action, and sustainable development. By showcasing the real-world impact and future possibilities of our industry, we can inspire the next generation to pursue careers that contribute to a healthier planet and better quality of life for all.
– M.Dennis Knight, ASHRAE
As the industry evolves, so does the need for a skilled workforce. There’s a growing emphasis on training and
education, particularly in new technologies like AI, IoT, and advanced refrigerants, to ensure the industry can meet future demands.
– Greg Walker, ASHB
We must invest in education and industry-recognized certifications to prove our competence and stay up-to-date with ongoing advancements as the industry continues to evolve. Today’s consumers, and those of the future, will seek trusted professionals who are current and credentialed for working on modern HVACR equipment.
– Clifton Beck, ESCO Group
Excelling in workforce development means attracting, onboarding, and training individuals without backgrounds in HVACR or wholesale distribution and helping them thrive within the industry. Onboarding sets the tone for tenure and longevity. Competitive companies must be prepared to offer robust training and a clear value proposition when it comes to culture.
– Talbot Gee, HARDI
With all of the challenges we’re facing we must focus more on industry training. Not just through trade schools, but advanced training for the existing workforce.
– Dominick Guarino, NCI
The AHR Expo Workforce Development Program
In February, AHR Expo will welcome 120 high school students participating in a dual-credit HVACR program in the Orlando Public School district's Orange Technical College, as well as 100 college engineering students as part of ASHRAE'S Young Engineers (YEA) Program.