A heat pump can change lives—not just for the families who rely on it, but for the person installing it, too. Take it from Joseph Johnson, a trainer at the African American Trade Association (AATA).
Today, Joseph teaches trainees how to install heat pump systems with confidence and care. But his path into the HVAC industry began far from a classroom. In 2017, Joseph was doing fairground maintenance in Florida when his employer introduced him to the world of heat pumps. After seeing an itemized invoice and realizing how much technicians were earning, one thing became clear to Joseph: The HVAC industry meant opportunity. Real, legitimate opportunity.
"The HVAC industry in general changed the entire trajectory of my life."
Joseph credits HVAC training to his "redemption story” and now considers himself an asset to his family and his community. “The HVAC industry in general changed the entire trajectory of my life,” he proclaims. And what kept him in the trade was simple: The industry is a true meritocracy. Workers like Joseph are rewarded for the amount of effort they put in, and when you work hard, you advance quickly.
Not only was this an opportunity for Joseph, but it’s for anyone willing to show up and put in the work—especially those who might be overlooked. That means people who are justice-impacted, high-risk youth, those facing economic challenges, or anyone who can’t afford college but needs a way forward. Joseph argues that regardless of your financial goals, you can reach them if you’re willing to put in the work.
He reminds trainees that this isn’t just a job, it’s a career. One where you can earn a pension, work toward a master’s license, and eventually start your own business. The barriers to entry are low, the advancement is fast, and the field is both recession-proof and, as Joseph puts it, “AI-proof.” After all, no AI tool can install a heat pump. And no matter what’s happening in the world, “a household is always going to need heat or AC.”
“We aren’t just solely focused on the technical aspect, but on building the person as well.”
But for Joseph, one of the most meaningful parts of his work goes beyond equipment and tools. In his classes, he’s intentional about teaching character development, too. How to conduct yourself. How to stay accountable. How to be disciplined. How to build the kind of life you want through the way you show up. As Joseph puts it, “We aren’t just solely focused on the technical aspect, but on building the person as well.”
In the end, a heat pump brings comfort to a home. But finding purpose and possibility in your work? That brings comfort to an entire life.