November 15, 2020 •Reid Geiler
Pursuing A Career in HVAC and Plumbing
Since the pandemic began early this year, many Americans have been laid off and have struggled to find work. Although many sectors have an uncertain outlook in the near future, workers in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) and plumbing careers have had steady employment and some areas have seen more growth during the pandemic. There’s still a nationwide shortage of plumbers and HVAC technicians, so this is a great opportunity for interested individuals to pursue these careers. It’s a great time to pursue any of these careers because apprenticeships are generally paid and there’s a great chance to get employment right after completing an apprenticeship.
What is it like to be a plumber or HVAC technician?
Plumber: Plumbers install and repair pipes that supply water and gas to and from homes and businesses. The demand for plumbing services is high because all new homes and buildings need plumbing done and many existing homes and buildings need their plumbing to be fixed. Plumbing requires the ability to troubleshoot and critically think when it comes to figuring out why there might be obstructions in water or gas supply. A normal day may include installing pipes, estimating costs for services, inspecting equipment, troubleshooting and more.
⇒Installing fixtures
⇒Toilet installation and repair
⇒Fountains
⇒Installing Water Heaters
⇒Backflow preventers
⇒Medical Gases
Experienced plumbers have the chance to teach apprentices and work alongside other construction personnel on buildings.
HVAC technician: An HVAC technician is responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing cooling, heating and refrigeration systems. The demand for HVAC technicians is also high because many businesses and residential areas constantly need installation or repair to their HVAC systems. An HVAC technician oversees the installation of HVAC systems, can help customers choose the best products for them, collaborate with other professionals in regards to installing equipment and more. HVAC technicians also provide technical support and can respond to any emergencies that occur with HVAC systems.
Commercial technicians are also involved with:
⇒Boiler Installation and Repair
⇒Chiller Installation and Repair
⇒Sheet Metal
⇒Control Installation
Why select a career in HVAC or Plumbing?
Pay: HVAC and plumbing careers have great starting pay. The average technician’s salary is just above $58,000 per year and there are many ways to improve skills and education to increase earning potential. What makes the pay for HVAC and plumbing careers is that interested individuals can start getting paid right away. In contrast to many other careers, training and apprenticeships within HVAC and plumbing are paid. Simply put, you get paid to learn. This allows anyone to transition to a plumbing and HVAC career easily because they will start being paid immediately. Commercial technicians who complete paid on the job training can earn over $80,000 per year.
Skills: One of the most beneficial aspects of pursuing a career in HVAC or plumbing is the skills you attain on the job. HVAC and plumbing technicians learn a lot of STEM related work in addition to their normal job duties. With the knowledge you gain in apprenticeships and on the job, you can choose to branch out to other careers within HVAC/plumbing or use your STEM knowledge to pursue further education to become an engineer.
Job Security: Plumbing and HVAC roles are some of the most secure jobs in the nation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbing and HVAC jobs are expected to grow to well over 500,000 jobs nationwide by 2024; there’s currently just over 480,000 plumbers in the U.S. In the next decade, nearly 70,000 more plumbers will be hired across the country. This growth in addition to the advancement opportunities in both HVAC and plumbing careers makes it one of the most secure jobs available today.
Variety: Every day on the job as a plumber or HVAC technician is different from previous days. In contrast to boring, sedentary jobs, working in plumbing and HVAC allows you to visit different residential and commercial areas in addition to working with people. No two days are alike in a given week and this prevents you from getting into a monotone routine on a daily basis.
Who should pursue a career in HVAC and Plumbing?
Both the HVAC and plumbing industries are very welcoming to interested individuals who are willing to work hard. Adults who have a high school diploma or GED can apply for apprenticeships and training programs located throughout the country.
Underrepresented populations like minorities and women are highly encouraged to pursue a career in HVAC and plumbing. Diversity in both training and hiring is a key focus at Geiler and facilitating this for underrepresented individuals is a primary goal. Talent and aptitude for HVAC and plumbing careers is vast, but opportunities are not. Geiler is an equal opportunity employer and emphasizes recruiting, educating and hiring minorities and women for various roles. Why should minorities and women choose to pursue a career in HVAC or plumbing at Geiler?
- Support: From the top down, Geiler staff and clients are welcoming and appreciate diversity. At your time at Geiler, you can expect a collaborative and friendly environment in addition to honing your skills so you can be the best professional you can be. Geiler also seeks diverse and competent managers, so this can be a great opportunity to pursue after working at Geiler.
- Resources: Minorities and women may face their own unique challenges and Geiler is eager to help direct you to the right resources whether it’s professionally or personally. It’s often difficult for minorities and women to find people who look like them in their desired roles, so Geiler can help facilitate any networking opportunities.
What does Geiler offer?
On the job paid training: When you choose to pursue a career in plumbing or HVAC with Geiler, you will get on the job paid training for your role. Geiler will instruct you and help you acclimate to being a professional technician from day one. You will get company tools, uniforms and equipment in addition to being placed in a great environment where you can learn from seasoned professionals. Throughout the duration of your training, you will be paid and you can be eligible to be hired full-time after the completion of your education and training.
Comprehensive benefits: In addition to paid training, you will be able to receive comprehensive benefits when you work for Geiler. Geiler technicians receive union wages and comprehensive packages like health insurance, dental insurance, PTO and more. Geiler also provides additional company perks that you can opt-in to like continuing your education.
Great instruction: When you train at Geiler, you’ll have access to some of the best plumbers and technicians in the area. Geiler is the only company within the Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and South Indiana areas that has union-trained technicians. The technicians at Geiler are very experienced and knowledgeable and they can help guide you through your journey to becoming a professional. Since Geiler works in many cities and counties, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments to provide you a solid and well-rounded foundation for your career.
⇒Full Medical Benefits
⇒Full Disability Benefits
⇒401 K
⇒Pension
⇒Apprentice Programs
⇒Continuing Education Programs
⇒Union Benefits & Wages
⇒Incentive Programs
⇒Safe Working Environment
⇒Company Vehicles, Tools & Uniforms
⇒Equal Opportunity Employer
⇒Career Advancements
⇒Commercial & Residential Service