Is HVAC School Worth It?

In this comprehensive discussion, Bryan sits down with Brad Cooper, an experienced HVAC instructor from Arkansas, and JD Kelly, a trade school graduate, to tackle one of the most pressing questions in the HVAC industry: Is trade school worth it? Rather than offering a simple yes or no answer, the trio dives deep into the nuanced factors that determine whether trade school provides real value for aspiring HVAC technicians.

The conversation begins with Brad's unique perspective as both a field technician with over 20 years of experience and a current instructor who transitioned to teaching five years ago. His father's business background and the common frustration of having to “go behind people and fix stuff” motivated Brad to enter education, believing that proper training from the start could eliminate many field problems. JD brings the student perspective, having attended trade school while working full-time, which gives him insight into both the challenges and benefits of formal HVAC education.

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on what to look for when evaluating trade schools. The guests emphasize that the investment in laboratory equipment and facilities often reflects the school's commitment to the program – you can tell immediately upon walking into a lab whether the institution truly prioritizes HVAC education. They stress the importance of accreditation, particularly from organizations like HVAC Excellence, which provides regular oversight and ensures schools meet industry standards. The conversation reveals that accreditation isn't just about having a certificate on the wall; it represents a school's willingness to submit to external scrutiny and maintain educational quality.

The discussion also addresses the critical balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application. All three speakers agree that the most valuable trade school experiences combine classroom learning with real-world field exposure through partnerships with local contractors, apprenticeship programs, or internship opportunities. They emphasize that instructor quality matters more than having the latest equipment – a humble, field-experienced teacher who can adapt to different student skill levels and learning styles proves far more valuable than someone with extensive theoretical knowledge but limited practical experience.

Topics Covered

• School Evaluation Criteria
  • Laboratory equipment quality and investment levels
  • Accreditation importance (particularly HVAC Excellence)
  • Modern tools vs. traditional equipment balance
  • Manufacturer partnerships and industry connections
• Instructor Qualifications
  • Field experience vs. teaching credentials
  • Importance of humility and adaptability
  • Managing diverse skill levels in the classroom
  • Storytelling and practical application methods
• Program Length and Structure
  • Comparison of certificate programs vs. associate degrees
  • Benefits of two-year programs for comprehensive learning
  • Integration of on-the-job training and apprenticeships
  • Realistic expectations for different program lengths
• Hands-On Learning
  • Importance of repetition and practical experience
  • Managing consumable materials and budget constraints
  • Real-world equipment exposure vs. lab simulations
  • Peer mentoring and collaborative learning approaches
• Student Readiness and Expectations
  • Managing diverse student backgrounds and skill levels
  • Realistic employer expectations for graduates
  • The value of combining school with field experience
  • Personal responsibility in education and continuous learning
• Industry Connections
  • Importance of school-contractor partnerships
  • Field trip opportunities and manufacturer relationships
  • Bridging the gap between classroom and real-world application
  • The role of apprenticeships in comprehensive training