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In this episode of Did You Know? Esco HVAC Podcast, host Clifton Beck sits down with Wayne Hardin, HVAC instructor at Johnston Community College and Faculty Member of the Year, to discuss a growing crisis in the HVAC industry - the retirement of experienced technicians and the urgent need for new educators.

Wayne shares his thoughts on how the industry is changing, the impact of a shrinking workforce, and how skilled technicians can transition into teaching.

Key Takeaways:

• Skilled Labor Shortage – Retirements create workforce gaps, longer wait times.
• HVAC Educators' Role – Experienced techs can transition into teaching.
• Wayne’s Journey – From fieldwork to training the next generation.
• Becoming an Educator – Steps for techs interested in mentoring.
• Work-Life Balance – Teaching offers stability and fulfillment.
• Industry Collaboration – Manufacturers, contractors, and educators must unite.

Noteworthy Quotes:

• “The industry is at a tipping point. If we don’t replace our retiring technicians, service times will go from weeks to months.” – Wayne Hardin
• “There are HVAC techs out there already training apprentices every day. If you enjoy mentoring, you might already be a teacher- you just don’t know it yet.” – Clifton Beck
• “Manufacturers and industry leaders need to recognize that training is just as important as innovation. Without skilled techs, new technology won’t matter.” – Wayne Hardin

FOLLOW OUR GUEST WAYNE HARDIN ON:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-hardin-293235155/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waynehardin/

FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727a
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/

FOLLOW DID YOU KNOW - THE ESCO HVAC PODCAST ON:

• ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/
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