The Generational Divide in HVAC for Leaders to Retain & Train Young Techs with Scott Pierson Part 1

HVAC Know It All Podcast

In this special episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, the usual host, Gary McCreadie, Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club, and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc. takes the guest seat as he’s interviewed by Scott Pierson, Vice President of HVAC & Market Strategy at Encompass Supply Chain Solutions, to discuss the current state of the HVAC industry. They discuss the industry's shifts, like the push for heat pumps, and the importance of balancing technical skills with sales training. Gary talks about the generational gap in the trade and the need for a cultural change to better support new technicians. They also explore how digital tools and online resources are transforming how HVAC professionals work and learn. It’s a part of a candid conversation about adapting to new challenges in the industry.

Gary McCready joins Scott Pierson to talk about the current challenges in the HVAC industry. Gary shares his journey with HVAC Know It All, starting from a small blog to a big platform. They discuss the changing industry, including the rise of heat pumps and the shift towards sales-focused training. They also dive into the generational gap, where older techs sometimes resist new tools and methods. Gary explains how digital tools are helping the younger generation work more efficiently. It’s an honest conversation about adapting to change and improving the industry’s future.

Gary talks about the pressures of the HVAC trade and how it can be tough for workers, both mentally and physically. He shares how the industry’s focus on sales is impacting technical skills. Gary and Scott discuss the generational gap, where older techs often resist new tools and methods. They explore how younger workers are more open to using digital tools, making their work faster and easier. Gary explains how embracing change and new technology can improve the work-life for everyone. It’s a straightforward talk for techs who want to adapt and grow in a changing industry.

Expect to Learn:

• How the HVAC trade is changing with new tools and methods.

• Why younger techs are embracing digital tools and faster work processes.

• How the generational gap affects training and adoption of new technology.

• Why is balancing sales skills with technical expertise is important for the future?

• How adapting to industry changes can improve work life for all technicians.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Introduction to Gary McCready in Part 01

[02:03] - How Gary Started HVAC Know-It-All and His Mission

[06:03] - The Generational Gap: Older vs. Younger Technicians

[11:26] - The Role of Digital Tools in Modern HVAC Work

[13:26] - How Technology is Shaping the Future of HVAC

[19:03] - How AI and Info Access Improve Technician Skills

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com

Follow Scott Pierson on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pierson-15121a79/

Encompass Supply Chain Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-supply-chain-solutions-inc-/

Follow Gary McCreadie on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/

HVAC Know It All Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc/

Shelburne Soccer Club: https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.com/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/