Hiring for Values, Investing in Mentorship, and Leveraging Tech Boosts Retention and Workforce Stability in the HVAC Industry

 

The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry is experiencing significant growth, with the U.S. market projected to reach over $32 billion in 2024 and expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% between 2024 and 2030. This expansion is driven by increasing demand for energy-efficient systems, advancements in smart technologies, and a heightened focus on indoor air quality. However, the industry faces challenges, notably a shortage of skilled labor which underscores the need for strategies that improve employee retention and workforce stability.

How can HVAC companies address workforce challenges while fostering a culture of mentorship, education, and leadership? What strategies set organizations apart in a competitive, evolving industry?

On this episode of Straight Outta Crumpton, host Greg Crumpton welcomes Mike Rosone, Vice President of Service Sales at Arista Air Conditioning. Together, they explore how effective hiring practices, people-focused leadership, and forward-thinking mentorship programs can transform HVAC businesses.

Key Highlights:

  • Looking Beyond the Resume: Mike explains why identifying values, work ethic, and motivations, often referred to as the “90% under the waterline,” is essential for hiring the right people.
  • Investing in Growth: Building mentorship programs and career roadmaps ensures employees can see their future in the HVAC industry.
  • Creating a Strong Culture: A supportive, appreciative workplace increases productivity, improves retention, and helps businesses thrive long-term.

Mike Rosone is the Vice President of Service Sales at Arista Air Conditioning, one of New York City’s leading HVAC contractors. With nearly three decades of experience, Mike started his career as a parts runner before rising to leadership roles. His journey includes managing HVAC operations, coaching entrepreneurs as a leadership consultant, and now mentoring teams at Arista. Mike is passionate about developing people, fostering positive work cultures, and driving operational excellence.

Recent Episodes

Data centers have moved from largely invisible digital infrastructure to a highly visible source of public debate as artificial intelligence accelerates demand for power, fiber, and compute capacity. The modern data center is now being built closer to population centers to support low-latency services, bringing critical infrastructure into direct contact with residential communities for…

The skilled trades are getting squeezed from both sides: demand is rising—driven by grid upgrades, battery storage buildouts, and the reshoring of manufacturing—while the workforce pipeline keeps narrowing. Across construction, manufacturing, and other skilled trades, employers are facing a demographic cliff: for every five workers who retire, only two replacements enter the workforce. Contractors…

The skilled trades are at a critical crossroads. According to an August 2025 report from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR), the number of women working in construction and extraction occupations rose to 366,360 in 2024, the highest level ever recorded. Yet despite that growth, women still account for only about 4.3% of construction…