Supply chain disruptions and a skilled labor shortage have made addressing HVAC maintenance needs difficult.
In a post-pandemic environment, supply chain disruptions and a worsening labor shortage have made addressing even routine HVAC maintenance needs more difficult. The busy season is a great opportunity to show customers they can rely on you. Still, the increased workload creates a lot of stress for employees and customers, especially during a skilled labor shortage. Here are some tips for navigating the skilled labor shortage in the HVAC industry.
Invest in Training
One solution to combat the labor shortage is to invest in training programs that teach students the necessary skills to become HVAC technicians. This can increase the pool of qualified candidates and make it easier for companies to hire technicians. It is important to teach new techs the essential skills, so they know how to do their job on the technical side. You also need to create training on how to run things in your operations so they can learn customer service skills and how to operate within your processes.
Offer Incentives
Apprenticeships are valuable assets to an HVAC technician career. Mentorships teach and assist apprentices and are a great selling point since apprentices can be confident they will get the support they need. Ensure your compensation structure is competitive in your area, which is crucial to your target audience. Then, you can offer hiring bonuses if it makes sense based on the market.
Incorporate Technology
In a skilled labor shortage, efficiency can keep things afloat and help you take on more projects. For example, field service software helps you keep track of your technicians in the field and schedule appointments. Or maybe you have a new hire who needs a little more training before they’re ready to take calls on their own. There is new technology to help techs diagnose and fix problems in the field, so they can take more calls earlier in the training process. The best part about having a digital training platform is that you use it repeatedly. As your systems and processes change, you can make those changes, roll them out to your current employees, and have the training ready for new hires.
Increase Awareness about the HVAC Industry
Many people are unaware of the high demand for HVAC technicians and the salaries they can earn. By increasing awareness about the industry and highlighting the need for HVAC technicians, more people can be persuaded to pursue careers in this field. The skilled labor shortage in the HVAC industry needs to be addressed, as it is causing delays in services and higher prices for consumers. By investing in training programs and increasing awareness about the HVAC industry, we can help solve this shortage and ensure people have access to reliable and affordable HVAC services.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals navigate the post-COVID-19 environment. We can develop a cost-effective, customized program for your building that will mitigate the potential health risks of COVID-19. Click Here to Request a Quote!
To learn more about the importance of reopening your building safely, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 202.860.1412 or sales@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority treatment with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and Pinterest!