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June 23

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Unlocking Opportunities: A Career in HVAC with Insights from SALT Service Co

"The trades have been very good to me, particularly HVAC. The opportunities are there."

Are you considering a career in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry (also referred to as HVAC or HVACR to include refrigeration)? James Chambers, operations manager at SALT Service Co — a family-owned business in Austin, Texas, specializing in HVAC services—has some valuable insights and personal experiences to share that might just inspire you to take the plunge into training for this field!

Climbing the Ladder: From Apprentice to Operations Manager

James's journey at SALT Service Co is a testament to the growth opportunities within the HVAC industry. He started as an apprentice electrician and worked his way up to operations manager.

"I started out as an assistant at SALT ... and now I manage the entire company," he shares.

This trajectory highlights the potential for career advancement in trades.6

The UTI Graduate Preference at SALT Service Co

One of the critical factors that James emphasizes is gaining a quality education, like at Universal Technical Institute (UTI).

"UTI has a really good reputation of ... turning out applicants and professionals who really know their stuff," he explains.1

HVACR Technician training at UTI helps ensure graduates are well-prepared both technically and professionally, which is crucial for a career at companies like SALT Service Co.

Marketable Skills Needed for Opportunities

James strongly believes in the value of the HVAC industry.

"You really should consider a career in the HVAC industry because it is such an important skill," he advises.

For those with a desire for a career with opportunities, HVAC can offer those. As James mentions, "Trades have been very good to me, and particularly HVAC. The opportunities are there."

What a Career at SALT Service Co Could Look Like

At SALT Service Co, there's a pathway for careers, as James tells us. He highlights that a good apprentice can advance to a service technician role. Some also have the potential for service management.

"There's no reason to expect that a good apprentice would not move into a service technician... and then into a service management role," he explains.

Why Train in HVACR at UTI?

For anyone looking to get into the HVAC industry, James’ recommendation is simple: Start at UTI.

 "The technical skills really put you top of (our) list... it's also going to accelerate your progress here as an employee," he notes.

The training not only can equip you with essential skills but also help you become comfortable with customer service—all while preparing to become EPA 608-certified, which could make you an asset to companies.

Ready to Start Your HVAC Career Training?

The HVAC industry offers opportunities for those ready to learn. With solid training from UTI, you can be prepared to become an HVAC technician in under a year! So, why wait? Enroll in HVACR training at UTI today and start your journey toward a career!

Head to our Programs page to learn more.


A New Career Path Starts Here

Take 60 seconds and find out how you can get trained.

1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.6) UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on personal credentials and economic factors. Work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer and their compensation programs affect wages. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.7) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.8) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 51-week Automotive Technology program.9) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program.10) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.11) See program details for eligibility requirements and conditions that may apply.15) Manufacturer-paid advanced training programs are conducted by UTI on behalf of manufacturers who determine acceptance criteria and conditions. These programs are not part of UTI’s accreditation. Programs available at select locations.24) UTI prepares graduates to work as entry-level automotive service technicians. Some graduates who take NASCAR-specific electives also may have job opportunities in racing-related industries. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.63) Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Wind Turbine Technicians, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/wind-turbine-technicians.htm. BLS projects total employment will increase from 11,400 in 2023 to 18,200 in 2033. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.77) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI prepares graduates for entry-level careers using the provided training. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than those listed.79) UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.128) UTI will pay for certain third-party FAA certification exam fees for qualifying students. See catalog for details and requirements.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

*Registration Fee Waiver will apply to any student who enrolls by July 31, 2025, with a start date between March 31, 2025, and September 25, 2025.

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