Why Investing in HVAC Training is Critical This Year

New year, new opportunities, new regulations, new innovations.

As the industry continues to evolve, there’s never been a better time to build a culture of training in your HVAC business. In fact, with a major regulatory shift to A2L refrigerants on the horizon in 2025, training your team is essential. 

“It will be critical for everyone to be fully trained,” says Randy Roberts, Vice President of Residential Business at Rheem. “I’m excited about the investments Rheem has made in new training technology and materials to help our contractors meet these new regulations.”

If you’re not sure where to start, have no fear: Rheem has the tools and training you need to stay up to date on the latest in HVAC. We understand that no one learns the same way, which is why our 24/7 training platform was designed to offer contractors resources across a variety of training methods that you can access at any time.

For example, training courses through Rheem Academy cover everything from technical skills to marketing and business. Rheem also partners with Interplay Learning to offer 3D simulation and virtual reality training.

“It’s online, but it mimics real-world conditions where contractors can move the air conditioner around, take the panels off, and add features. Then you take that and combine it with a virtual reality approach, and you’re in a 3D world using your real hands to work on equipment,” says Jose De La Portilla, Senior Manager of Education and Training at Rheem.

Rheem’s Innovation Learning Centers also offer hands-on training for those who prefer in-person learning.

“It is genuinely thrilling to witness the forward-thinking approach embraced by Rheem, particularly in its substantial investments in cutting-edge training, technology advancements, and product production,” Roberts says. “This proactive stance ensures that everyone is well-equipped to navigate new challenges. The commitment to providing comprehensive training reflects Rheem’s dedication to staying at the forefront of industry advancements and also serves as a valuable resource for contractors.”

De La Portilla agrees, especially considering the job market today. Industry data shows that the HVAC trade is about 65,000 technicians short of being fully staffed.

“People today know where they want to be in their careers. It’s up to employers to provide the training to help them get there,” he says. “Unless we develop a culture of training right now, contractors are going to fail because there won’t be people to keep our crucial work going.”

Although 2024 may pose challenges in the lead up to 2025, leaning into training will help prepare contractors, their teams and businesses for the year ahead and beyond.

“As contractors, we need to embrace change,” De La Portilla says. “We don’t have to like every change in the industry, but we as leaders need to set an example and embrace changes for our teams. If we don’t, employees won’t.”

Learn more about the trainings available through Rheem Academy and stay up to date on the latest regulations and industry news at Rheem.com/HVACKnowZone.