The HVAC Technician Shortage: How to Recruit, Train, and Retain Contractors
If you’re an HVAC contractor, you’ve likely felt the pinch of the ongoing labour shortage. The industry is growing, but there aren’t enough skilled workers to meet demand. Building and maintaining a reliable team is becoming increasingly difficult, with experienced technicians retiring and fewer young workers entering the trade. This isn’t just a temporary issue; it’s a challenge that requires a proactive approach.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of HVAC technicians is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, fueled by new construction and energy-efficient system upgrades. The demand is there; now, contractors must focus on attracting, training, and retaining the next generation of HVAC professionals.
How to attract new technicians
Finding and attracting talent takes more than posting a job listing. It requires engaging with potential hires in meaningful ways and making an HVAC career an appealing option.
One of the best ways to connect with young workers is to build relationships with trade schools and colleges. Partnering with HVAC Excellence and SkillsUSA can help contractors engage with skilled students before they enter the workforce. Some HVAC organizations also host career fairs, which provide excellent opportunities to meet potential recruits and discuss apprenticeship programs.
Highlighting the benefits of an HVAC career can go a long way. The BLS reports a median annual wage of $51,390 for HVAC technicians, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Using digital job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, and HVAC Agent helps expand outreach while showcasing success stories on social media. It can capture the interest of younger candidates who may not have previously considered an HVAC career.
It’s also worth positioning HVAC as a profession that requires both intelligence and versatility. Technicians draw on knowledge across multiple disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, chemistry, and physics, to diagnose problems and install complex systems. This unique blend of skills is part of what makes HVAC such a highly respected trade. Emphasizing the expert-level thinking required can help attract individuals looking for a career that’s both hands-on and intellectually rewarding.
Why training and upskilling is important
Recruiting new talent is only half the battle, proper training ensures they develop the skills needed to succeed. Apprenticeship programs remain one of the most effective ways to onboard new hires, allowing them to learn hands-on under seasoned professionals. Many government-supported apprenticeship programs help businesses offset training costs while giving apprentices valuable real-world experience.
Industry certifications also play a key role in upskilling new and experienced technicians. Credentials enhance credibility and open doors to career advancement opportunities. With the industry shifting toward energy-efficient solutions like heat pumps and smart HVAC systems, investing in continuing education keeps teams ahead of the curve.
How to keep skilled technicians on your team
Once you’ve invested time and resources into training new technicians, the last thing you want is high turnover. Creating a workplace that technicians want to stay in is as important as recruitment.
Competitive pay and benefits are obvious retention strategies, but career growth opportunities matter just as much. Offering specialization tracks in commercial HVAC, refrigeration, or automation helps employees see a future within your company.
Work-life balance also plays a big role as flexible schedules and paid time off help prevent burnout, a common issue in skilled trades. Additionally, equipping technicians with modern diagnostic tools, scheduling software, and high-quality equipment makes their jobs easier and more efficient, leading to higher job satisfaction.
