Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine May 2026

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2026

State National Chapter News

Should a person first see a R-290 Monobloc Heat Pump be in a customer’s home, or the classroom?

partnerships between education and industry. Manufacturers have made their position clear. They are ready to provide support, explain why equipment was designed a specific way, and an open forum for understanding how to interact with high performance equipment; however, partnership is not a one-sided request for resources…It is a mutual investment. If we are to prepare students for the technologies of today, and the innovations of tomorrow, then we must meet that commitment with equal resolve. For it is only when education and industry move forward together that we truly serve the future of our workforce. As systems become more complex, manufacturer led training is no longer optional. It is essential for both educators and technicians. "It’s not about making an immediate sale it’s about building a pipeline of qualified technicians in the marketplace. As the number one HVAC manufacturer in the world, we view this as part of our commitment to the industry. We are also extremely proud to be able to provide resources and assistance to those who want and need it." Jeff Bledsoe, Daikin Comfort Technologies “It is important to recognize that the individuals in attendance are not part of the problem, they are the solution. When manufacturers, educators, and trainers come together, they are not just collaborating; they are making a direct investment in the future of the HVACR Quotes from Pannelist

Where New Technicians Are Struggling

Manufacturers consistently see gaps in new technicians, particularly in diagnostic and troubleshooting ability, electrical fundamentals, system design and application, refrigerant safety, and digital controls literacy. These deficiencies often appear immediately when graduates enter the workforce, reinforcing the need for stronger alignment between education and real world applications. Defining the Roles of Education and Industry A clear distinction emerged during the discussion. Schools are responsible for providing foundational knowledge, and manufacturers are responsible for providing the intricacies of their particular equipment. Ask not what your industry can give to your program, but what your program is willing to invest to prepare the next generation of technicians. One of the clearest lessons from the Manufacturer Educational Summit was this: progress demands understanding on both sides. Too often, educators seek equipment, yet hesitate when the path forward includes the very training that brings that equipment to life. At the heart of the discussion was a shared commitment, a recognition that the future of HVACR depends on stronger A Call for Stronger Partnerships