Contractors | How to Counteract the Increasing Shortage of HVAC Techs

By the year 2022, there is going to be an estimated deficit of over 115,000 HVAC technicians in the field, this according to a recent study from the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation. This ever-growing shortage will only continue to make filling positions with quality workers even more challenging.

As a contractor, how can you prepare for this deficit? We offer tips and ideas on how you can attract the right people, filling your staffing shortage with the next generation of HVAC professionals.

Partner with trade schools. One of the best ways to acquire new talent is to get to them first by forming relationships with votech schools. Offer help developing class curriculum or volunteer to speak in front of the students.  This is a great way to get your foot in the door and begin building solid relationships with trade schools in your area.

Ask for referrals from your existing crew. This is another great way to build up your company. Ensure to tell your team you are looking for reliable, hardworking individuals and watch the candidates come in by the dozen.

Get on social media. Younger generations spend a lot more time on their mobile devices, which means you need to spend a lot more time on yours – specifically on social sites like LinkedIn and Instagram where you can list your job openings and accept applications.

Mentor the next generation of techs. Do you wish you had more hard working techs like you? Then train them to work like you. Mentoring potential hires through internships, job shadowing, and apprenticeships is not only a good way to attract new techs, but it also allows you to train them the way you want them to be trained… it’s a win-win!

Simplify the application process. Millennials have a short attention span, so it’s important you make the application process simple and easy. Only ask for the crucial pieces of information and gather the rest of the info you need during the interview process.

Create an enjoyable company culture. If you have no problem hiring new techs but have trouble keeping them around, it’s probably time to take a closer look at your company culture. Yes, you need a structured work environment, but be reasonable and accommodating as well, or else all your new talent will jump ship and probably end up with one of your competitors.