From Entertainment to HVAC: Clifton Beck’s Journey to Enhancing Skilled Trades Education
Straight Out of Crumpton’s Greg Crumpton and Gabrielle Bar welcome Clifton Beck, the Manager of Digital Media at ESCO Institute. Beck shares his unconventional path from running a mobile DJ business and studying TV, Radio, and Film to falling in love with mechanics during an internship at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. The turning point came when Beck merged into the trades, specifically plumbing and HVAC, after marrying into a small family refrigeration business. His hands-on experience with refrigeration and the strong relationships forged along the way eventually led him into education. Beck highlights the importance of continuous learning, emphasizing how enrolling in classes at local trade schools significantly refined his skills.
His journey came full circle when he transitioned into an educator role, helping technicians prepare for their EPA 608 certification through ESCO, a leading educational content provider and HVAC industry certifications. Beck’s tale underscores the immense potential of vocational education and how the symbiotic relationship between field experience and classroom learning cultivates a well-rounded, skilled workforce. Through initiatives at ESCO, Beck continues to contribute to the evolving landscape of skilled trades education, embodying the transformative power of practical experiences blended with formal learning.