How Contractors Can Attract the Next Generation of HVAC Techs

Finding skilled labor is one of the biggest challenges contractors and small business owners face today. While demand for the trades continues to grow, fewer young people are entering the field.

That’s where Explore the Trades comes in. This nonprofit is focused on raising awareness, changing perceptions, and helping both educators and young people see the trades as viable, rewarding career paths. Explore the Trades works with students in grades K-12 to spark early interest in the trades through educational programs and labs that provide access to modern tools and training. They also connect students with residential contractors for apprenticeship or career opportunities.

In this Q&A, we talk with their team about their mission and how business owners can attract and retain new talent.

What is currently attracting young people to the HVAC industry?

We are seeing three things that resonate with Generation Z: earn‑while‑you‑learn, little to no college debt, and technology-driven work.

Unlike careers that require years of college before you see any income, HVAC apprenticeships and entry-level roles allow young people to gain hands-on experience and financial independence right away. This “learn and earn” model appeals to a generation that values practical skills and wants to avoid financial strain or unpaid internships.

HVAC is a tech-forward industry. From smart thermostats to energy-efficient innovations, today’s technicians work with cutting-edge tools and digital diagnostics. Gen Z grew up with technology, so a career that blends mechanical skills with tech expertise feels modern and exciting.

With the rising cost of higher education, avoiding student loan debt is a major motivator. HVAC careers typically require training programs or apprenticeships that cost a fraction of a four-year degree. For Gen Z, that means entering a well-paying, in-demand field without the burden of tens of thousands in debt.

What are some of the best ways for business owners to recruit new talent?

Bring the trades to students by engaging directly with local schools. Contact the school counselor or CTE (career and technical education) instructor at your local high school for any opportunities for classroom visits to share your expertise with students.

Think of your local school as your future pool of technical talent. Start a partnership with your local high school: offer to donate used equipment, host career events at your shops, or even virtually! Let students see your shop in action. Invite your top technicians to talk about their day-to-day work and share why they chose a career in the trades. Encourage other members of your team to talk about their work, too. It’s a great reminder to the students that individuals of all talents are needed in the industry.

Connect with local programs or community colleges to spread the word about apprenticeship opportunities so candidates can see your company as a training destination.

Lastly, request and share Explore The Trades’ free classroom materials—poster kits (English/Spanish, including a series for elementary students) and STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) lesson resources—during school talks and career days; these tools spark interest and legitimize the profession in educators’ eyes.

How can businesses partner with trade schools and/or high schools?

Businesses can partner with schools to offer internships, job shadowing opportunities, guest speakers, or provide used equipment donations. We encourage businesses to complete the organization’s “Bridging the Gap” eight-question survey to become a part of a national network with a goal of connecting schools and businesses to create local talent pipelines. The goal of the survey is to understand how businesses are willing to engage with their local schools.

Schools also benefit when contractors help align curriculum with apprenticeship requirements— so joining school advisory boards gives your industry a voice that can echo inside the classroom.

Are there traits or qualities HVAC companies should look for when hiring new-to-the-field candidates?

Hire for character, train for skill. Working with local high schools gives you the opportunity to expose students to the trades. There are young adults out there who don’t have a plan after high school, but have the right character, integrity, and work ethic for your company. Look for: mechanical aptitude, curiosity, reliability, and customer‑facing communication—plus comfort with technology and continuous learning. These are consistent predictors of success in modern technician roles. This is also your opportunity to train your technicians correctly without needing to fix bad habits from any previous jobs!

What advice would you give HVAC businesses trying to build a workplace culture that attracts younger technicians?

Younger technicians want to feel that their work matters. Show them how HVAC careers impact comfort, safety, and sustainability. Connect their daily tasks to a bigger mission like energy efficiency or improving lives. When they see the purpose beyond the paycheck, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed.

Offer clear career paths and ongoing training. Gen Z values skill development and advancement opportunities. Create mentorship programs, pay for certifications, and highlight stories of technicians who moved up in your company or branched off to start their own HVAC company. A culture of learning signals that you’re invested in their future.

Younger workers also prioritize balance. While HVAC can be demanding, consider flexible scheduling options, mental health resources, and time-off policies that respect personal life. A workplace culture that values well-being attracts and retains talent.

Gen Z grew up with technology - use that to your advantage. Equip your team with modern tools, scheduling apps, and digital troubleshooting resources. A tech-forward workplace feels progressive and makes the job more efficient and more appealing to young technicians.

Contact Explore the Trades to learn more about their mission and partnership opportunities.