Carrie: We will definitely have to increase the age limit if we don’t get more newbies in the trades, STAT. 

To me, it highlights two things. One, the HVAC industry’s labor shortage is far from over. Second, it’s important to recognize the young talent that is shaping the industry’s future. 

Regarding that first point: Earlier this year, Bring Back the Trades reported that, by 2030, nearly 1.4 million trade jobs will be unfilled. Of them, 192,365 are HVAC technicians. As more HVAC professionals retire or age out, fewer workers are replacing them. 

This puts immense strain on those already in the industry. It also means the pool of candidates for our 40 Under 40 contest is shrinking. But truth be told, we’d rather keep the age limit at 40 than raise it just to ensure we collect enough nominations. Thankfully, there are some good reasons to believe the talent pool will deepen in the coming years. 

A June survey conducted by SimplyWise of people ages 18-29 showed they ranked HVAC technicians as one of the most AI-proof careers. Around 47% said the skilled trades feel safer in an AI future, and a combined 48.9% said they would “probably” or “definitely” pick a trade school over college. 

Looking for quick answers on air conditioning, heating and refrigeration topics? Try Ask ACHR NEWS, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ACHR NEWS

Big tech companies are throwing their weight behind the skilled trades as well, aiming to create the jobs needed to install and maintain the infrastructure they require. Most recently, the Department of War and Mike Rowe of “Dirty Jobs” fame joined forces to provide scholarships for skilled trades students. 

This leads me to my second point. If we want the next generation to seek the careers we all know exist in this industry, we need to give them role models. Not only that, we need to show that we’re willing to reward them. 

As a millennial, I can attest that our generation enjoys being recognized for our efforts. We appreciate knowing that our work is valued. We were also a generation dissuaded from pursuing other career paths in favor of obtaining a four-year degree. 

That being the case, it’s easy to imagine how great a young HVAC professional would feel to receive a 40 Under 40 award. Not only does it validate their choice of going against the grain and pursuing the trades, but it also provides the peer-to-peer recognition younger generations desire in their careers that goes beyond generic praise. 

Resolving the HVAC industry’s workforce issue requires a multi-pronged, all-hands-on-deck approach. Recognizing the young talent within it is one of those prongs, which we at the ACHR NEWS are proud to do with our 40 Under 40 contest.  

But we can’t do it without you. 

If you know of anyone who you believe deserves recognition, enter a submission through our 40 Under 40 page.