In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with Patrick Butler, a seasoned HVAC technician and educator, and Field Service Supervisor at SAV-MOR MECHANICAL, INC. Patrick, who has over 20 years in the industry, shares his journey from apprentice to expert. In Part 2, they discuss the shift in technician training, from old-school methods to modern approaches using social media and AI tools. Patrick also talks about the importance of allowing apprentices to fail and learn, while embracing new tech like Microsoft Copilot to streamline work and improve skills.

Patrick Butler talks about the shift in HVAC training, explaining how apprentices now have access to online resources and AI tools like Microsoft Copilot. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and how embracing new technology helps technicians stay competitive in the ever-evolving HVAC field.

Throughout this episode, Patrick shares how HVAC training has evolved, with online resources and AI tools playing a big role. He stresses that allowing apprentices to learn from failure and staying updated with new tech is essential for technicians to improve and succeed in the field.

Expect to Learn:

• How HVAC training has changed over the years.

• Why apprentices need the chance to fail and learn.

• How AI tools like Microsoft Copilot help technicians work smarter.

• Why adapting to new tech is important for HVAC pros.

• How modern training methods are shaping the future of the trade.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] – Introduction to Patrick Butler in the Second Part

[02:10] – Old-School Training vs. Modern Methods

[04:56] – Why Apprentices Need to Be Allowed to Fail

[07:02] – The Importance of Humility in HVAC Training

[09:35] – AI's Impact on the Trade: Patrick’s Approach to Teaching Apprentices

[13:01] – The Role and Advantages of AI Tools like Microsoft Copilot for Techs

[19:46] – How New Tech is Shaping the Future of HVAC Training

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Follow the Guest Patrick Butler on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-butler-227489308/

Savmor.net: https://www.savmor.net/ 

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/