Episode 205: uilt Different: Raising the Standard in HVAC Training with Josh Pickel

<p><strong>Are we actually developing skilled technicians, or are we just rushing people through training to fill empty service trucks?</strong></p><p>In this episode of <strong>Commercial Kitchen Chronicles</strong>, Pat Finley sits down with 26-year HVAC veteran, instructor, and newly published author <strong>Josh Pickel</strong>, better known as <strong>“Professor Pickel,”</strong> for a conversation about training, technician development, leadership, and what it really means to be BUILT DIFFERENT.</p><p>Josh started his career in HVAC straight out of high school and spent nearly two decades working for a company in Pennsylvania before eventually making his way to Florida. Today, he&#39;s a Senior Service Technician and the Director and Lead Instructor of <strong>Anthony&#39;s Cool School</strong>, where he&#39;s helping prepare the next generation of HVAC professionals.</p><p>But Josh isn&#39;t interested in simply handing students a certificate and sending them into the field.</p><p>His approach focuses on building strong fundamentals, developing critical thinking, creating opportunities for hands-on learning, and continuing to support technicians long after they leave the classroom.</p><p><strong>We get into some important conversations about the future of the skilled trades:</strong></p><ul><li><p>Can a six-week accelerated HVAC program really prepare someone for a career in the field?</p></li><li><p>What&#39;s the difference between teaching someone technical information and developing a competent technician?</p></li><li><p>Are we doing enough to mentor and support new technicians?</p></li><li><p>Why do refrigeration fundamentals and airflow matter so much in HVAC training?</p></li><li><p>How important are communication, accountability, leadership, and mindset to a technician&#39;s success?</p></li><li><p>What responsibility do technicians have for their own continued education and professional growth?</p></li></ul><p>We also dive into Josh&#39;s newly published book, <strong>Built Different: Dirty Hands, Clear Minds, and the Blue Collar Path to a Life Worth Living</strong>.</p><p>Josh shares the personal story behind writing the book, the encouragement he received from his wife, and why he believes the skilled trades offer something much bigger than a paycheck.</p><p>One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation? <strong>You don&#39;t have to completely reinvent yourself overnight. Just make an intentional effort to get 1% better every day.<