Demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services is surging. From residential installations to commercial maintenance, the total HVAC market is expected to approach $64 billion by 2029 with a compound annual growth rate of 8.8%.
This presents an incredible opportunity for Thermal Concepts and the entire HVAC sector to meet growing demand and innovate for the future.
So what’s the problem?
The industry also faces a significant talent shortage.
It’s a challenge that has been building for years, and it’s quickly becoming the top pain point for the HVAC industry with the potential to dictate the sector’s success.
At Thermal Concepts, we want to do our part to support our people and propel the industry forward.
We are excited to announce the opening of the Thermal Concepts Talent Training and Retention Program on August 1, 2025.
Growth Happens Here
To make this training center possible, we’ve repurposed a large warehouse space at our headquarters in Davie, Florida, transforming it into a dedicated training center for HVAC professionals.
The facility’s goal is straightforward. We want to cultivate new talent and upskill existing HVAC professionals to help bolster the HVAC sector’s workforce in the months and years ahead.
To achieve this, the center will offer a licensed apprenticeship program that provides paid, on-the-job training, creating a clear pathway for the next generation of HVAC professionals.
Key areas for upskilling the existing workforce include:
- New Technical Knowledge and Skills: Stay updated on the latest technology, including energy-efficient solutions and green practices.
- Smart Technology: Improve delivery quality and efficiency using advanced diagnostics and remote communication tools.
- Soft Skills and Professionalism: Foster a customer-centered mentality and customer service skills to communicate effectively, understand customer needs, and provide solutions and upsells.
- Safety and Compliance: Update certifications to remain compliant and reflect new industry standards and practices.
Additionally, the Thermal Concepts Training Solutions Center includes access to the specialized certifications and skills programs that are most in demand right now, including:
- NATE Programs for Service and Installation
- Building Science Principle (BSP) Certification
- Evaluation and Performance
- Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Certifications
- OEM Certifications
With the program’s launch, we’re confident these offerings equip HVAC professionals with the skills they need to achieve long-term career growth while enabling their companies to provide more reliable and efficient service.
Moving forward, our offerings will continue to evolve as the industry changes as we continue to prioritize recruiting, retaining, and upskilling today’s HVAC professionals.
Why Open This Facility Now?
Our philosophy is simple: when our people are at their best, our service is at its best.
Already, 80% of HVAC contractors say they have difficulty finding qualified workers, and 56% say they’ve been working more hours since 2019.
The cause is three-fold:
- Aging Workforce: The average age of HVAC workers in the U.S. is 55, and with 20% of the workforce expected to retire soon, the industry anticipates a significant shortage of skilled labor.
- Lack of Interest From Younger Workers: There’s a general lack of awareness about career opportunities in HVAC, often due to mistaken beliefs about low pay and difficult working conditions. This is made worse by society’s strong emphasis on obtaining four-year college degrees, which can lead people to overlook valuable certification-based trades.
- Technical Complexity & Training Requirements: For new talent, navigating HVAC certification and training can be challenging because of the many specialized areas and varying state and local requirements. Additionally, modern HVAC and building management systems increasingly demand strong technical and electronics skills.
This is a challenge we can’t afford to ignore. The HVAC sector’s success is predicated on having the right people with the right skills at the right time.
That’s why nearly half of HVAC industry leaders believe training the next generation of workers is critical to long-term growth. We’re confident this training facility helps address that market need.
Ultimately, the rationale is simple: employee retention and customer service improve when a clear path for HVAC talent is available. We believe that’s an investment worth making.
Join Us in Building the Future
We are committed to building a strong future for our employees, our clients, and the entire HVAC industry.
Are you looking for a new career path or ready to upskill your expertise?
Visit our website to explore these programs and apply today!
