Trade Warrior Program equips Fort Cavazos Soldiers for HVAC careers

KILLEEN, Texas - Through the Trade Warrior Program, an eight-week-long heating, ventalation and air conditioning, or HVAC, training program made possible by Trane Technologies, Soldiers who plan to transition out of the Army earn industry-recognized HVAC certifications while receiving hands-on experience, networking opportunities, mentorship and career guidance.

"At Trane Technologies, we believe in the power of investing in people and communities," said Dottie Johnson, Trade Warriors Program leader at Trane Technologies. "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," she continued. "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."

John Hoffman, vice president of strategy and growth initiatives at Trane Technologies, said the company is deeply committed to fostering innovation and empowering Soldiers and veterans through the Trade Warriors Program.

"By equipping them with cutting-edge skills and certifications, we not only honor their service but also address the critical HVAC technician shortage, driving growth and excellence within our industry," he said.

Sgt. Thomas Ashworth, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, attended college and found he wasn't interested in the career options before joining the Army. Now that he plans to transition out, he knew the Trade Warrior Program was a perfect fit.

"I'm really enjoying the classes," he said, adding he researched the program and learned the hiring rate after completion was very high. "The whole idea of … here's a certification, here's a job, and you're on your way makes a smooth transition. So, as a soon-to-be veteran, I couldn't sell that better."

Blake Dierking, veteran and senior instructor for RightTek, the company contracted by Trane Technologies to conduct the training, said the HVAC field appealed to him because it was lucrative as well as full of different career opportunities.

"If you don't like residential (HVAC work), don't give up on HVAC because … the field is so good," he said. "Just go another route. With industrial (HVAC jobs) you can make more hourly, while in commercial you could make more at the end of the year."

Ashworth urges other Soldiers to plan for their futures, as it will be here sooner than they think.

"Start building a plan, explore multiple options in case you don't get into the first thing that pops up into your mind," he said. "I had no idea what I was talking about with HVAC a month or two ago. But now, starting this program, I'm finding I have an interest and competency in something I've never really touched on before in my life.

"Definitely have an open mind," he continued. "Have a plan going as soon as possible. Try to prepare your mind and your life - your family, your finances. Build up that buffer space so when you get out you have that time to not just transition literally out of the Army, but also transition mentally. Start looking toward your future."

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