Eastern Energy Expo: OESP Leaders Prep Young Techs for Success

Scott Nicholas of Thermo Products and Angel Gonzalez of Carlin/Hydrolevel delivered their OESP presentation, “From Tools to Paychecks: Preparing Young Technicians for HVAC Success,” in which they outlined the challenges and rewards of careers in the industry, on Tuesday, May 20, at the Eastern Energy Expo in Atlantic City, N.J. They provided career tips in a series of slides, with accompanying commentary. A slide titled “How to Be a Pro,” advised young techs to respect customers, peers and their own time; communicate clearly – especially when things go wrong; and take ownership of their work and growth.

The presenters compared Tech A (“takes extra training, solves tough problems”) and Tech B (“does the minimum, and avoids responsibility”). Five years later, the presenters said, the likely outcome is that Tech A is training others while Tech B “stays stuck.”

Nicholas said that 225,000 jobs are going to be available in coming years, and that a future in HVAC can be a springboard into a range of related careers, including project management, energy efficiency, building automation, technical sales, representing a manufacturer, or starting a business.

Wages increase with increased skill, not just time on the job, Nicholas continued. A slide showed entry level pay at $57,000, median pay at $70,000 and senior pay at $88,000.

The HVAC business needs diverse perspectives, Nicholas said, advising rising techs to “respect your team and lead by example. Help the next tech find their place too.”

Seek weekly feedback from your supervisor – then act on it, Nicholas advised. Keep a journal of what you learn or use Notes in your phone, he suggested, and set technical, personal, and financial goals.

Gonzalez noted that in scholarship applications to Oil & Energy Service Professionals, recommendations of employers have the most impact. Joining OESP is a good way for young technicians to develop contacts, Gonzalez and Nicholas said. Speakers at OESP chapter meetings are accessible, and will welcome young techs who approach them, whether that’s in person at meetings or later, by phone or email.

Attitude and perspective are important, Gonzalez stressed. “I can’t tell you how many young techs have said to me, ‘All my company’s interested in is making money,’” Gonzalez said. He threw his hands up. “Hello? That’s what it’s all about. Would you work for free?” In seeking a pay bump, Gonzalez continued, new techs would do well to see themselves in context. As though speaking to a young tech, Gonzalez said, “You’re not worth what this tech who’s been here twenty-five years is worth. He’s making money for the company. You’re costing the company money.” Gonzalez added, “And that’s okay. The company is all right with that. They’re making an investment in you.”