As the HVAC industry continues to navigate an ongoing skilled labor shortage, efforts to attract, develop and celebrate top talent have become increasingly important. One event helping to shine a spotlight on the profession is the ServiceTitan National HVAC Championship powered by Trane, which brings together some of the industry's most talented technicians and apprentices to compete on a national stage.

Now entering its fifth year, the championship has evolved into more than a skills competition. It serves as a platform for showcasing technical excellence, promoting career opportunities in the trades and inspiring the next generation of HVAC professionals. By highlighting both emerging and experienced technicians, the event reinforces the value of hands-on expertise while helping raise awareness of the rewarding career paths available throughout the industry.

Supply House Times spoke with Paige Burns, marketing leader, residential HVAC at Trane to discuss the company's continued support of the championship, how the competition has grown over the years, and the role events like this play in strengthening the HVAC workforce pipeline.

What does Trane’s continued sponsorship of the ServiceTitan National HVAC Championship powered by Trane mean for the company and its commitment to the skilled trades? 

Trane’s continued sponsorship underscores our long-term commitment to elevating the skilled trades. Supporting the ServiceTitan National HVAC Championship powered by Trane allows us to celebrate the professionalism, expertise, and essential contributions of technicians across the country. It also reinforces our belief that the future of our industry relies on investing in the people who keep it moving.

How has the competition evolved over the past five years, and what can participants expect in 2026? 

Over the past five years, the competition has grown significantly in scale, visibility, and technical rigor. We’ve introduced more advanced challenges, such as a semifinal that includes diagnosing Trane equipment, to reflect current field possibilities. In 2026, participants can expect even more immersive, hands-on competition environments, expanded media coverage, and a finals experience in Chicago that raises the bar once again.

What skills and knowledge areas are tested throughout the competition stages? 

The competition evaluates a broad range of skills: system diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting, installation techniques, refrigeration fundamentals, airflow measurement, brazing technique, safety practices, and real-world customer problem-solving. It also tests foundational industry knowledge through the digital qualifying rounds, ensuring competitors demonstrate both technical expertise and a strong understanding of HVAC principles. [AS1.1]Each test of skills is designed to reflect what technicians encounter in the field, ensuring the challenges are authentic and tied to industry experiences.

Why is it important to spotlight both apprentices and experienced technicians in events like this? 

Highlighting both apprentices and experienced technicians is essential because it showcases the full talent pipeline. Apprentices represent the future of the trade, bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. Experienced technicians demonstrate mastery and set a benchmark for excellence. Featuring both groups emphasizes that the HVAC profession offers growth, stability, and lifelong learning. We’ve seen apprentices come back in later years as professional competitors, reinforcing the real, tangible career growth and advancement opportunities within the trades.

How does the championship help address ongoing workforce challenges in the HVAC industry? 

The championship helps address workforce challenges by increasing visibility of HVAC as a high-skill, high-demand, yet achievable career path. By celebrating technical excellence and offering a national platform, we help inspire more people to consider HVAC as a viable and respected profession. 

What impact have past winners, like Craig Childress and Braden Reeser, had on the industry and the competition’s visibility? 

Past winners like Craig Childress and Braden Reeser have had a meaningful impact. Their success stories showcase what’s possible in the trade and help elevate the competition’s prestige. Many past champions have become ambassadors for the industry, participating in local outreach, mentoring upcoming technicians, and helping bring greater visibility to the trades through their continued involvement and successes. 

What role do events like this play in attracting new talent to HVAC careers? 

These events give prospective technicians, especially young people or career changers, a chance to see HVAC as dynamic, competitive, and filled with opportunities for advancement. When people see technicians celebrated on a national stage, it reshapes perceptions of the industry and brings refreshed excitement. 

What opportunities do participants gain beyond the prize money? 

Technicians gain far more than just prize money; they gain national exposure and industry recognition. Competing allows technicians to showcase their skills to brands, employers, and peers across the industry. It’s also a great opportunity to network and connect with other technicians who are at the top of their field, share best practices, and learn from one another.

What are you most excited about for the 2026 finals in Chicago? 

What excites me most about 2026 is the finals in Chicago. If you’ve never attended, it’s an incredible experience to watch the best of the best compete and see their talent on full display. The event is not only an exciting showcase of skill and determination, but also a celebration of the hard work, discipline, and commitment that brought each competitor to that stage.