HR Daily Advisor reported in November 2022 that career placement challenges affect about 200,000 veterans each year, for a variety of reasons. But for the past three years, Trane and American Standard's Trade Warriors Program has found success in preparing America’s service men and women for successful careers in HVAC.
First reported on by Contracting Business in 2022, The Trade Warriors Program is a hands-on, eight-week training program that provides participating military service members with the necessary skills and certifications to receive job placement in the field, helping ease their transition back into civilian life. Trade Warriors training takes place at two facilities with state-of-the-art training labs in Fort Liberty, North Carolina and Fort Cavazos, Texas. These facilities combine classroom instruction with hands-on learning labs, and feature air conditioners, gas furnaces, heat pumps, air handlers, and ductless equipment.
Upon graduation, participants receive several industry-recognized certifications, including EPA, NATE (North American Technician Excellence), and the A2L Refrigerant Certification. Furthermore, the program helps integrate soft skills training and interview preparation to equip participants with essential interpersonal and interview skills.
Since its inception in the fall of 2021 more than 275 students have graduated from the Trade Warriors program. Sources for Trane and American report that 80% of these graduates have secured HVAC jobs, with the majority still thriving in their current positions.
In 2024, the Trade Warriors program achieved several significant milestones. The program successfully graduated 114 students across 10 cohorts, reflecting its commitment to providing quality training and education. Notably, there was a 5% increase in the placement rate versus the historical average, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce. Additionally, the program expanded its support for graduates by partnering with Klein Tools, which provided additional tools and opportunities to soldiers upon graduation. In 2024, the program added 157 new dealers, further enhancing its reach and impact. A major highlight was the program becoming DoD SkillBridge-approved, which allows service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during their last 180 days of service.
"Our future goals for the Trade Warriors program include expanding its reach to more veterans and enhancing the training curriculum to keep pace with industry advancements. We aim to establish partnerships with more military bases and veteran organizations to increase awareness and participation," said Crystal Hyman, Director, Dealer Experience for Trane Technologies' Residential HVAC Business. "Additionally, we plan to introduce additional certifications and specialized training modules to cater to emerging technologies and market needs. Ultimately, our goal is to make the Trade Warriors program a model for veteran training and employment," Hyman said.
Skill Acquisition, Networking, Success
Hyman told Contracting Business that returning soldiers gain a multitude of benefits from their training and certifications in the Trade Warriors program.
"First, they receive industry-recognized certifications that enhance their employability in the HVAC and related fields. Second, they acquire hands-on experience and technical skills that are directly applicable to their new careers. Additionally, the program offers networking opportunities, mentorship, and career guidance, which are crucial for a successful transition to civilian life. Ultimately, they gain confidence and a sense of purpose, knowing they have a clear path to a rewarding career," Hyman concluded.
Support is Provided
Trane Technologies provides extensive support to soldiers during their training in the Trade Warriors program. This includes personalized training plans, access to advanced learning laboratories, and experienced instructors who are experts in their fields. We also offer career counseling, resume building workshops, and interview preparation sessions to support readiness for the job market. Additionally, we provide a supportive community and mentorship from fellow veterans who have successfully transitioned into civilian roles, creating a network of support and encouragement.
Trane Technologies has established a robust partnership network with Trane and American Standard dealers in nearly every state to help Trade Warriors graduates find meaningful and rewarding employment in the HVAC industry. These strategic engagements help to address the HVAC technician shortage and support the growth and success of dealers' businesses as they serve local communities. Graduates who accept positions with Trane or American Standard dealers enjoy several benefits, including:
- Pre-qualified Dealers: Participating dealers meet minimum salary requirements and benefits for military personnel.
- Faster Onboarding: Graduates are already trained on Trane and American Standard equipment.
- Continuing Education: Graduates can participate in ongoing education programs and training provided by local dealers.
- Access to Trane Technologies Learning Management System
- Opportunities for Career Advancement: Graduates have access to clear pathways for professional growth and leadership roles within the organization.
Additionally, upon graduation, participants receive several industry-recognized certifications, including:
- EPA Certification: A requirement for technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere.
- NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification: The nation's largest nonprofit certification organization for HVAC and refrigeration technicians.
- A2L Refrigerant Certification: Provides technicians with training to handle mildly flammable refrigerants safely and in compliance with industry standards.
The program also offers additional support through training programs and learning modules available after class. Furthermore, it integrates soft skills training and interview preparation to equip participants with essential interpersonal and interview skills.
We provided additional questions to Crystal Hyman related to Trane Technologies belief and support of the Trade Warriors program.
CB: Why is it important to Trane Technologies to train soldiers through the Trade Warriors program?
Crystal Hyman: At Trane Technologies, we believe in the power of investing in people and communities. Training soldiers through the Trade Warriors program is important to us because it aligns with our commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. Veterans bring a unique set of skills, discipline, and leadership qualities that are invaluable in the workforce. By providing them with specialized training and certifications, we not only help them transition smoothly into civilian careers but also enrich our talent pool with highly skilled and dedicated professionals.
CB: How does the Trade Warriors program benefit Trane Technologies as a company?
CH: The Trade Warriors program benefits Trane Technologies in several ways. By training and hiring veterans, we gain access to a pool of highly disciplined, motivated, and skilled individuals who can contribute significantly to our Trane and American Standard customers. Additionally, supporting veterans through this program strengthens our corporate reputation and demonstrates our commitment to social responsibility, which can positively impact our brand and customer loyalty.
CB: How does Trane Technologies partner Trade Warriors graduates with Trane and American Standard dealers for meaningful and rewarding employment in HVAC after separation from the services?
CH: Trane Technologies has established a robust partnership network with Trane and American Standard dealers to help Trade Warriors graduates find meaningful and rewarding employment in the HVAC industry after their military service. We work closely with our dealer network to identify their staffing needs and match them with qualified veterans who have completed our program. This not only helps address the HVAC technician shortage but also supports the growth and success of our dealers' businesses.
Our dealers benefit from hiring veterans who bring a strong work ethic, technical skills, and leadership qualities to their teams. In turn, our graduates gain access to stable, well-paying jobs with opportunities for career advancement. We also provide ongoing support and resources to both the veterans and the dealers to support a smooth transition and long-term success. This partnership creates a win-win situation: it helps veterans build rewarding civilian careers while simultaneously strengthening our dealer network and enhancing customer satisfaction through high-quality service.
CB: How does the Trade Warriors program align with Trane Technologies' overall mission and values?
CH: The Trade Warriors program aligns perfectly with Trane Technologies' mission and values, which emphasize innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. By investing in the training and development of veterans, we are fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. The program also supports our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive. Furthermore, it reflects our dedication to making a positive impact on society by empowering those who have served our country and helping them build successful futures.