Stronger Training Pipelines and Smarter Social Media Can Help Solve HVAC’s Talent Shortage
The skilled trades are at a crossroads. By some industry estimates, for every five experienced technicians retiring, only two new ones are entering the field—highlighting a growing HVAC talent gap. At the same time, buildings are becoming more complex, more connected, and more dependent on high-performance mechanical systems. The stakes are real: without a new wave of trained, adaptable technicians, the systems that power hospitals, schools, and data centers are at risk.
So how do we close the skills gap while preparing young technicians for a faster, more digital future? And what does it take for a field tech to evolve into a leader who can train the next generation?
Welcome to Straight Outta Crumpton. In the latest episode, host Greg Crumpton sits down with Phil Manchester, Service Team Lead at AirTight FaciliTech. Together, they explore the realities of modern HVAC careers—from hands-on technical growth to leadership development and the power of self-education.
What you’ll learn…
- The widening HVAC talent gap—and why stronger training pipelines matter: With experienced techs retiring faster than new ones are entering the field, companies must accelerate how they develop and support emerging talent.
- How social media can boost recruiting and awareness: Sharing real field work and lessons learned can spark interest in the trades and influence the people guiding young career decisions.
- Why leadership now requires emotional intelligence: Technical skill alone isn’t enough—today’s team leads must communicate well, manage people effectively, and continue growing personally.
Phil Manchester is a Service Team Lead at AirTight FaciliTech in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he has grown from Service Technician to field leader over nearly nine years. A graduate of Hudson Valley Community College’s two-year HVAC program, he began his career in facilities maintenance before expanding into commercial HVAC service, developing skills in ultrasonic testing, shaft alignment, and complex mechanical systems. Phil continues to build both his technical expertise and leadership capabilities, focusing on mentoring technicians and strengthening team performance in the field.
Article written by MarketScale.
