Im black and Im new to hvac....I didn't know about this problem ...scares me alil bit ....but I'm sooo dedicated ....I hope this isn't a problem wen I graduate
US population - white 79.96%, black 12.85% that's the difference - it's not interest, it's simple math ... numbers. The skills aptitude, opportunity and interest are there but you do not live in an area where you can see it. The USAF has always had a very substantial black American representation in electronics, electrical, and HVAC fields so I know that what you are saying is more perception than actuality.
It not why are there so few blacks its why are there so few skilled hvac techs period. Walk into a part store and look at your competition. I feel like im surrounded by idiots. Kids now a days do not want to do blue collar work. Half the ones that do take no pride in there work. 90 percent of the attics I walk into the HVAC installations make me sick. Sorry but it takes alot more than writing up a proposal to make it in HVAC. I don't think the upcoming generation can handle it.
Same reason you don't see many women. I'm a female construction trades sheet metal apprentice, and by a miracle I've made it to 80%. While the union and the JATC try to be blind to color, gender, etc, that's not always true of the Journeymen in the field. Those guys decide whether to teach real skills, or whether to use you for grunt work only. Bias exists subtly. Change is slow. I work harder than my white male brothers, & make less headway. Frustrating and many decide it's not worth it.
@WonkyGirl wonky Gril, I know what you are talking about! These clowns tried to do the same thing to me. Go get that, lift this. No knowledge.... I started running with companies almost for free, and guess what.... I should have been paying those companies for all the knowledge I stole in the progress. You really have to stand in these shoes to understand the foolishness. Hang in there girl!!!
i hear you bro.im a black hvac tech at the start of my career. i cant explain why there are so few black hvac techs, i know a couple. my class had 4 blacks that started and i ended up being the only one to get a certificate and epa license.i cant say that its super hard it just takes knowing the equipment,the tools and the sequence of operation.i really think its just not talked about as a career choice throughout the black community. it can easily be a HS shop class to get blacks interested
I ask the same question myself! HVAC is about four trades in one, and many people scare to tackle hard stuff. I am a student of HVAC, only two of us blacks in the class. The electrical side to the trade, is hard, then there is a Mechanical side to the trade, a chemical side to the trade, and many black people want easy challenge. This is the honest truth.
I'm a 21 year old African American Female in the Air Force. I'm currently a Aircraft mechanic deployed in Bagram Afghanistan. I came across this video because I'm interested in cross training into Civil Engineering HVAC ( fire fighting is also on my list of potential future career changes). I've grown up in a family of technicians and fire fighters, it is all I know. So I'm not understand this assumption that there are no blacks in these fields.
I am black male and I will have my certifications in 2 months.. i feel like i have the basics to have a great career in hvac!!! we will be taking the epa608 and Nate I can't wait im very excited
'm a qualified tech looking for more experience. Universally certified 608, other safety certs, and looking to score my ice cert soon. What i and others in my area have found was that : The contractors of this area prodominately seek those with 5yrs experience or more. I just can't figure out how to get the experience if no one hires me. Any advice for a good guy trying to better his living condition?
@TOMAHAWK212 If it is possible for you, try to take an internship. You will not be paid but, you will acquire experience. Some internship require few hours a week.
My Name is Thomas and I am 35 and CEO of Robason Heat and Air Inc. and I agree with you that there is a decline in good quality people that are available in this field. Not to mention the number of companies out there that are doing below par workmanship at a very cheap price. . Visit us at getcoolorcozydotcom We service Granbury, Fort Worth, Burleson, Cleburne, Weatherford, and surrounding Texas cities.
The answer is simple you have to be smart to be an Ac tech and let's face it most blacks don't have the brains not all most they put a value on fancy cars clothes the way there girl looks etc if more black parents raised there kids with books instead of tv there would be more black hvac techs
north american trade school in maryland if you black the police will fuck with you run your tag while you in school a police out there told me when they pulled me over do not wear your uniform when you get out of school they be looking for that fuck that school i just left i have to deal with that shit in the hood if you black and go to that school watch yourself the teachers are army rejects that school was bullshit
Drzarloff..........The HVAC trade needs to be in the high schools, that's where you will be able to attract not only black males but young white males as well. not everyone is cut out for college but you can make a great living in the hvac field if you are motivated and have a mechanical aptitude. if you have the proper credentials and are a hard worker you will get hired by someone. black or white.
@tls2156 It's a real shame that many secondary schools are discontinuing to have the trades taught. A lot of kids have to wait til they graduate from high school to learn a trade.
I believe the reason for so few blacks in my eyes is no one really wants to spend time training anymore even after going to school. Not so much as a lack of desire. Put me in the game coach! Then we can exceed! You don't know what we can do if we're never put in the game.
Drzarloff ......The hvac field is a great field for any one 18 or older to explore. there are many sub- fields within the field. there is hvac controls and programming, chiller service technician, air balancing, etc. but the big problem is that not many people know about these professions many of the guys in the field right now are quite old. the field needs more exposure because it is also missing a lot of young white males but it is even worse for young black males.
Drzarloff you pose a very interesting question. before i attempt to answer the question i will give you a little background on myself. i am a black male with an Associates of science degree in HVAC/R. I have worked in the commercial hvac service industry and stationary/building engineering. now i know your question will draw a lot of under cover racists from under the covers and they will post their hateful generalities about blacks.
lazyness..period i saw many blacks in my school that got the free ride from the gov. while i paid full price for tuition they spent their time gettin high in the parkung lot and cracking jokes disrupting class i studied did well and im doing well in the field just my experience
I think that you should concentrate on just getting students instead of this color barrier that your keeping alive. I would think that at your age, you would know that some information isnt readily available to some people, some neighborhoods, some cities and so on and so on. Some people just dont want to deal with being outside, in an attic heat. It doesnt appear to be a glamorous field and this is purely my oppinion but lets try and kill racism instead of keeping it alive.
Posted by a white man. I respect that you would be so bold to address this point. I stumbled on it while trying to find a reasonable HVAC tech. Can you help me understand why I am being charged 3-4K to install a mini split I purchased for 1.2K?
I found a contractor to deploy the unit for $300 and an HVAC person to certify and tweak it for $800. I believe that is reasonable. As for your post: I don't see you as being racist. You are simply keeping it real. I respect that. One day address the reason a lot of people in HVAC, plumbing, electrical and contracting are broke and cant find work. Thank you.
Do the math. An A/C company has to charge to stay in business. They are not doing installs every day so when they do they have to make up for it. Also most companies lose big time money in the winter because the phone does not ring. They have to cary insurance, workmans comp, and health insurance for there employees. An A/C company needs to do atleast 4-5k per truck on the road a week to basically break even. Then we have to Warranty it too. That is why you are paying 3-4k for an install.
@gwozhog agreed and the last thing we need is people buying their own equipment..anyone that wants us to install their equipment will pay more. if we will even do it
@hrhkee it would have probably been cheaper to call an hvac company and get a bid for a turn key job. i know my company charges more if the customer has purchased their own equipment and NO WARRANTY. we don't need people selling hvac equipment over the internet. this has already put other types of businesses out of business. i for one hope every company out there charges people who buy their own equipment double. who is to say you even bought the right size? you did your own load as well?
IM A BLACK MAN AND I JUST FINISHED A COURSE IN H-VAC. THIS MAY HURT A LITTLE TO SOME BLACKS BUT SOME OF US JUST DONT HIT THE BOOKS HARD ENOUGH. I DO BLAM SOME OF THE SCHOOLS AND SOME OF THE PARENT. BUT THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS IM NOT GOING TO WAIT ON SOME WHITE COMPANY TO HIRE ME. IF YOU STUDY UR ASS OFF AND THANK GOD FOR YOUTUBE, AND APPLY IT. START YOUR OWN DOG. JUST LOOK AT OTHER RACE, THE DONT LET THE WHITE MAN STOP THEIR PROGRESS
I am also in the HVAC field, Ive only been doing it for 6months now, and Ive also wondered the same thing. In your opinion, how long does it take a person to get where they are pretty knowledgeable in the HVAC field. Currently I mostly do installation work, and once in awhile I go on service calls with a service tec. I love my job most days, and eventually I would like to start my own bussiness, do you have any advice?
Maybe it's because in predominantly black neighborhoods the cops are heavy. They nail all the niggas for frivilous stuff like rolling stops or whatever. Then when they can't pay the fine their driver's license is suspended.
How many HVAC techs are there with no drivers license?
it's not just blacks it's young people in general. they all want to take to check to the bank and not work. this field is a tough field. and none of the young folks want to work for it. Americans are getting lazier by the generation. just my opinion
you think too much. Why are you making a race issue out of this? so you would hire the blcak guy over me just cause hes black? ahhhh- thats racism dude
hello HVAC's i have went to school for this career an been doing it for 8 years; with black ppl i see in todays world are service techs,maintenance,and or working at a parts supply house! But for the past 6 years, all i do is [change outs] an just the installation of taking out the old air conditioners an or ductwork/ an finish in a day! Trust me there can not be a black soul that can do what i do/ an technical stuff...!
Hey Doc, if my evaporator coil is dirty will my AC still cool but have high humidity in house? Right now it's 80 degrees outside with 94% humidity. Inside it's 70 degrees with 69% humidity. The system used to keep the house around 55% humidity.
It's not that there is so few black HVAC tech, its that the requirements for the job is set very high for someone just getting into this field. And it far to many that give up or let these requirements holod them back. the best advance that was give to me was IF NO ELSE WILL HIRE YOU , HIRE YOURSELF. I have been through school and have the certification and still have not been hired YET.
I am 25yo white dude just starting to learn HVAC industry and spending loads of hours watching youtube videos and reading sites in the last couple days, funny thing is a black HVAC tech got me into wanting to learning about air conditoners. I always thought HVAC takes too long to learn, too much money, you have to work for some company for too long and sorta thought you had to be a plumber or 2 both at the same time which is even more money etc...
I need to put on some hip waders after reading some of the comments here. First off most larger companies hire minorities to guard against discrimination claims and also because as Doc says to help bring in buisiness as some people feel more comfortable with techs the same race in their homes or buisinesses and some techs will not go into some neighborhoods which goes for black, white or hispanic. Their is no reason any qualified tech can not find a job or get training in the field.
@TheReelblack ...golden rule...treat others like you want to be treated...as long as an employer does this they generally wont have to worry so much about being sued...but if you kno ur a crooked beast then maybe Thereelblack has a point.
After many years of using affirmative action, minorities will have a foothold on the trade industry, more minority owned businesses in the field, more outlets to plug into as a young minority trying to perfect his hvac craft, remember, you cant perfect the skill, if you aint working in it. Humor my suggestions and know they are valid..I work in NC.
SOLUTION-"Affirmative action"-The leadership of companies will NOT see pass the color of a techs skin if left to their own devices, the job of the government is to do for the people what they cannot do for themselves...industry is greed driven...therefore leadership will do whats necc. to please the customer not ness. what is right, I say again "affirmative action" when there are 2 qualified techs, give it to the monority, the leadership will not do it unless uncle sam makes em.
@dlocklear38 Really affirmitive action is the solution? "when there are 2 qualified techs, give it to the monority" Maybe you should check a dictionary and look up racism. When you have two qualified techs and you hire the minority because he's a minority....that's racism. Affirmitave action is racism at its best.
@karuss02 in my opinion, yes. C, while tryn to come up in the field iv had several techniques run on me that iv identified and noticed as patterns amoung the leaders in the industry at the tech level(u kno...where the tire meets the road), 1- technique is to be put on the side line as far as the distribution of the work load...if u r given all calls that require only the skills of an entry level tech and never get a chance to tackle more difficult work your skill growth CAN be hendered.
#2-Customers chose the company they want to service their equipment, if they feel they cant trust the tech to come into their home they will call the next company. The companies suffer business loss if they send a minority out to their homes. TRUST, lack of it is why there are very little minority techs...so why should a company hire a black tech if they think the customer base will reject them and take their business elsewhere? Retorical question.
First i would like to state im a minority hvac tech, 14yrs experience in all, there is no single anwser to the problem of why there are so few blacks or minorities in the hvac field, but im gonna attempt to scratch the surface with an anwser or two and a SOLUTION! #1 Reason there are so few blacks or minorities is the obvious and simple reason, there are less minorities than whites, roughly 90% of the population of the US are white people! Simple. see next comment!
It's so disheartening reading about those who can't find a job. I know how that could be but if there is a will there is a way. I suggest calling or joining your local union. Join an association or something, I mean come on. Let's stop making this a black thing. I think what is happening now is that these companies are doing background checks and these checks do prevent people from getting jobs (whether you're black, white, hispanic, whatever)...
I'm a black woman and I am so excited about getting into this field. I previously worked in sales at a major telecommunications company and got burned out. This is my second career. I'm not sure why there are so few blacks in the field...I can only speak for myself but a black HVAC tech actually encouraged me to get into this field. As a woman, I expect push back and raised eyebrows but I have to provide for my family just as anyone else involved in this industry.
@kmoorer74 I start tech school next month and after about a year and a half I plan to do an apprenticeship or look into joining a union. Whichever works...
@moorer74 Hey Doc, Im a 32 year old black male. I truly love working on HVAC systems. I have only been working on HVAC for only two years. But, I can truly say I really love it. 13 years ago I came to Atlanta for the electrical trade. Now I will say that Electrical is my first love , but heating and Air has me really excited to learn more. This is really a fun , challenging , and exciting trade that also requires a lot of continuing education. I really would reccomend this trade to all BLACKS!!!
Hello, I am a Girl and I am getting ready to open my own Business as soon as my husband gives me the divorce he so badly wants. We ran our hvac/r business together for 18 years. I went to HVAC school, I'm EPA cerified and ready to go. Do you have any tips?
hi i have twenty years on the field, as you now some times we work after hours and some weekends to get the job ready but that something that the workers they dont care they just want they many on weekend and that's it
im black man 27 and a dj and also a tech and i been doing this for hvac for 2 years and doing my own business i do all units and also cars hvac.. and trust me im nice.. thanks to my teacher who drilled hvac in to my head.. (latten heat) lol
i don't have a criminal record im black an i live in miami,fl i graduated from a school call a.t.i an i still haven't find a job the school supposed to have the jobs ready for me but i notice down here they hire mostly hispanics or white, but im not mad about that they should even that out. but theirs alot of blacks in a/c they just work for their self in the streets like me an i have a degree in major appliances in the same course with the a/c course im thinking of moving out of miami to ATL,GA
Dr Zarkloff, first, I'm a big fan of your videos - I wish more people would be so dedicated to helping others. In regards to the question, I just got in the HVAC field and have been applying and applying sending resumes and calling and nobody wants to hire ANYONE with 0 experience. My friends tell me to lie and say I done 6 months, but that's not me. I even live in Texas where AC is in high demand, but am still struggling to get in. Every body wants 5 years exp, that's a big problem in the US.
@starchild2121 You're right about few HVAC contractors wanting to hire people new to the trade. What ever you do, never lie on an application. It will bite you in the ass.
@starchild2121 EXACTLY! I live in Louisiana and same problem. I grew up in the HVAC trade, father, grandfather, uncle, and step father are all involved. I went through school, paid my money, did my studying (HOURS!) and got my certification. I applied everywhere, even places too far for me even to consider traveling for work but same answer...we want a tech with 10 years experience at least. Bullshit. I did my time now I should be considered for a job.
@starchild2121 What are you going to do when "10 years xp" all run out? Just not have any techs? No, your finally going to have to hire young people trying to learn the trade. I'm by no means an expert but I can't get a job, hell I can't even get some of these old hands to show me anything because they think I'll turn into a shade tree and take away their business. That is why I said piss on the HVAC field. Some dreams you must give up on sadly.
I just finished an AAS in HVAC/R and my class only had 4 black men in it. Rather odd, considering it was a large city with a black population nearing 50%. Two were older guys, married with kids, and were displaced workers. The other two were guys my age (20s) working regular jobs already. All very capable guys. Two have already found work, not sure about the others...but there will be at least 4 more sooner than later, I'd imagine.
Well lets see----we used to hire a lot of guys (black white spanish) many of whom were working on some kind of education---and every one of them was working toward a job that was out of the heat and physical labor--(if one isn't dreaming of owning his own company).Its one thing to apprentice to a "construction" type job,quite another to have to go to school for it.I imagine if I were to go to class a career with low start up cost and the day taking place outside of a hot attic would be preferred
Well lets see----we used to hire a lot of guys (black white spanish) many of whom were working on some kind of education---and every one of them was working toward a job that was out of the heat and physical labor--(if one isn't dreaming of owning his own company).Its one thing to apprentice to a "construction" type job,quite another to have to go to school for it.I imagine if I were to go to class a career with low start up cost and the day taking place outside of a hot attic would be prefered
Im in trade school here in Chicago, and we have more Black Americans than any other race, But the problem is the lack if guidance at home. And Im Black American myself. Im only in the trade becauser of the desire to better myself. but over all we need to get it together!
too much is expected of a black guy during training, a black guy got to be very very good just to get to average, they not gonna get their t's crossed or their i's dotted by the trainer unlike their white counterpart, I tried it once, cost of books alone, damned.
I am a Black Man that graduated HVAC school in March of '10. Whether it's the color of my skin or the lack of experience is why I'm not working in the field has yet to be determined. If it's lack of experience, how is anyone supposed to get experience, if no one is willing to take the chance on giving them experience? If it's due to the color of skin, employers are missing out on great workers. Their loss. Good luck to everyone that's looking to break into the trade. Love the video.
@fisherman3694 Back in the early 1940's my dad and his brother, sons of two Russian immigrants, became HVAC techs in St.Louis. He moved down to Tenn. Dad hired and trained a Mexican kid who wanted to learn when nobody else would and that kid became a self-employed HVAC tech.
For you to call a working class guy a racist who just said he wants to hire black techs shows that you are either not paying attention or are just plain knee jerk stupid. Ever work with tools hotshot?
i work in the film and TV production industry. i am technical-natured. back in 1992 i took the ASE test to certify myself to be able to install and purchase R-12 in automobiles. then they were going to require a license for it. autozone had the test right there at the cash register, so i took it and passed it and got licensed. about 4 years ago i took the R22 course (self taught)and also in recovery and now have a license in that. i mainly did it just to have, and to also maintain my system.
The reason there are so few black HVAC techs where (Houston, Tx) I live is because the companies around here are just NOT willing to train people, no matter what race you are. I dont understand it at all. I'm new too the field and have been looking for my break for the longest of time. Its not a race thing (I'm black), its just that companies around here just arent willing to train for the most part.
Alright, Doc, let's see if we can't explain this. I'm in school for HVAC in the Detroit area. I'm white and most of my class is black. However, after talking to them, I know that most have criminal records. Great guys, just messed up when they were younger. And companies here don't want criminal records in their company so many a contractor has told me they won't hire the majority of applicants. Terrible, really because one of the best students in the class is black.
@DrZarkloff True. However, these guys all pretty much have either heavy drug related charges or assaults on their records from back when they were in high school. Companies are going to look at that when making a decision for employment. Thinking of it from a company's point of view, I'd have a hard time reconciling myself with hiring a total stranger with a record for assault or major drug charges. Knowing these guys, though, I'd have a hard time walking away. They know their stuff.
i live in kansas city missouri, i was in the top of my class, i am white and i had a job waiting for me when i got out of high school. there was one black person in my class, i would never hire him, he was the dumbest out of the whole class and had a terrible attitude.
The technical fields have such a shortage in general because they tend to only recruit people within their respective fields, this is mainly due to short sigthed thinking to generate profit on a short term basis instead of nuturing and training our young. Alot of these professions can seem like a closed door to all young people.
I love ur video, i am hispanic went to college for this and love the opportunity to work with u. I wrote in ur e-mail before on something else before. I am close to black because i am a little dark (lol). Sometimes i feel no-one wants me because of that reason. But i am going to think positve. I am a very hard worker and just want to be giving the chance to work in the field. If u like i can e-mail u my resume that i have made up. My e-mail address is ventureman78@aol.com. thanks
Well I am a african-american male. Just got out of school for HVAC/R 21 no record & im finding it hard to get a job in philadelphia it bothers me everyday. Im just starting off & I guess no one wants to take a shot on me but im going to work my tail off to get an equal opprotunity like everyone else Now as far as the rest of my counter parts I see it as everyone wants the fast money don't want to work but want mney. I don't get it nothing comes easy or overnight & i'm finding that out.
I did molecular cell biology and electronics at university. There were so few black people on those courses. In electronics, I think I saw one black guy in a 100-200 person lab session. However, if I looked at the photos of the graduate students, almost all of them were Asian. I heard Chris Rock making a joke about Bill Gates being wealthy and white and thought, well I can answer that. The reason he's so wealthy is he also put with growing up being called a nerd studying nerdy stuff.
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of those blacks that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and pasted the epa certi exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of those blacks that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and past the epa certification exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of thoes black that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and past the epa certification exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
this is a good question im finishing up my ass. in HVAC and the 1.5 yrs i've been in school theres only been 3 other brothers in my classes and now that im cert. i still cant find work so maybe that why cause most of us know we wont get work in HVAC
i am a african american service tech who cannot get a job, i have applied to several companies, they are not trying to give people a chance do you have any suggestions
your right bro and if blacks do get a job in hvac/r , they are going to be under paid. I am from Trinidad & Tobago, living in DC, been in the field 9 years now , work for 2 hvac/r company since i left school (very short term employment) with my 9yrs experience i still get treated like i now left school.Now i work for myself and trying to take there customers away with affordable prices.
It's not a white or black issue. We can see a short person or tall person. We can see black or white. Ever see a person with a cliff lip? Well our brains are much like that cliff lip, only in a brain you do not see the cliff lip. We all are the same yet devolpe differently. That is the reason we all act differnet. It is all so natures way of protecting us. Like why does a black person get cycle cell and a white does not
What you say is true. But why are there more blacks in basket ball now or most other sports? Because they very good, better then the mexican or white guy. So use that same approch to your question. BTW I have grown up doing this trade, now 56 and if I could do it all agin I would RUN to any other trade. HVAC way under paid for what we know.
I work in the Washington DC area and I've noticed that a lot of the black technicians don't bother working for small business, they will start their own HVAC companies because they have a lot of networking within the community which whites generally don't have. I've also seen this with the Asian technicians, they have the ability to generate customers within the Asian community that will hire them because of like ethnicity. Face it, whites are so diverse they don't tend to network
You have made an astute observation. In most all technical fields there is a very low representation of blacks. I believe that the young guys don't see many people that look like them doing that kind of work, so they don't relate to the profession. In the past if blacks were given OTJ training and aprenticeship oppurtunities, hence greater representation and role models, then these stats may be different. This can be changed today by hiring managers and contractors. Give them a shot.
i am a black male from england. The problem we have over here is that there are loads of jobs for hvac techs ,plumbers, electricains and other engineering roles but the problem is that no one wants to take on apprentices/trainees. All the companys want experienced people and the companys that do take on trainees mite take on one or two and like over 100 people will apply for it. more techs need to be like you offering to pass on there knowledge. they just say they dont have the time.
i am white but a religious minority. i have experianced prejudice from fellow techs. often, they form cliqs and push out anyone they don't want around. they create reasons to lay-off or fire good minority techs and pressure managers. i've finally found a good company to work for and hope others will too.
I am a 43 yr old African American who is very interested in the field, my question for you is what sort of biz do you mean you can get? do you mean location or parts of town white techs won't go into? if so "SOME" blk folk dont even trust other black techs because bad experiances with un-trained or under trained "jack of all tradesmen" who happen to be black .Also Igot a job in the limo industry once, to later find out that I was hired because I am black, so off to da hood they sent me.
I'm one of the minority HVAC Tech here in Northern,VA. One company hired me just because I was black but at the same time they wouldn't send me to any of the multi million dollar homes they had contracts with. Why because I hate to say some white homeowners question our diagnostic solutions.But last year i worked with a company last year that the minority Technician was white. I finally said I would go into business myself because I am proud of the work I do and not try to scam a homeowner!
Hi Dr. I am very very surprised at this...3 of my cousins one female are HVAC technicians and many technicians that come out under my AHS warranty are black. I understand that there is a problem hiring qualified people period especially the younger generation.
In my case it has to be a social problem. I have just recieved my epa's 2months ago. I was introduced to HVAC 4yrs ago from my brother inlaw. But I think the word in going around now faster than ever. But once I learn the trade I will make shure this trade stay in my family for generations to come.
I stay in macon and some of the companies down here dont want to hire black echs, i graduated in june of 2009 and hve been putting in applactions me and another dude tht came out with me and he is white , the tell me they are not hiring and he gets the job
As a Haitian person I had an opportunity to go to HVAC school in Boston.but I've always wanted to go down south for better opportunity.my had 21 blacks including myself,3 whites and 1 spanic.out of 29 blacks I'm the only one who's keeping up with HVAC because I have the chance to move to Atlanta I had a privillege to work in apt complexes.and I'm also passionate for HVAC as well,now my blacks friends couldn't never have an interview in Boston because companies asking for 5 to 10 years of e
When I was in HVAC class there was only one black student out of 22 of us. My guess is that they don't have the interest in learning this field. In order to train a technician the first thing is they have to take interest in HVAC trade. The black student was in the top 3 because he had a strong interest and he paid attention. But if a person has no interest (regardless of race) he/she will not learn no matter how much of an earning potential they can have.
I actually would beg to differ. My stepfather is in the HVAC supply business, and I have noted we have quite a few regular black customers. One of them in particular is probably one of the most knowledgeable of them all. i mean, sure there aren't as many as there are whites, but thats just relative to percentages, no?
you are weird as hell!... you should get out of your van more. maybe eat some grits and smoke a jay. then you might understand why there arent many "black" technicians. being black isnt exactly a hi tec way to be. niggas in this country werent bred for their smarts you know.
I am not sure what it takes to get someone to devote themselves to this trade. If you want to be good at best you need to live, eat , sleep , & breath HVAC because there is so much to understand and I have been in this buisness 10 years I have learned more in the last 3 years than the first 7. I also have tried to get several people jobs @ my place of work with them not giving an effort or not showing up for work and thats a hard pill to swallow in trying to keep my own reputation.
I'm an African American and I played around with technical studies my freshman year undergrad. I started off studying math & technical drawing, but I never made it my concentration. I changed major's after my freshman year to art because I simply didn't have the confidence to attempt so many years in architecture school and I feared failing out of the program and having to be in debt) I loved mathematics and technical art design but I didn't think I could develop industry level skills.
because niggers are fucking lazy and stupid and always have an atittude. there happy with the answer now mr. suckloft??? ahhhhh just kidding, there's no blk hvac teks cos nobody wants to send a ni999er to peoples homes. shit might go missing. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH just kidding. i dont' knwo why theres so few. maybe we should keep it that way. ahhhhhhhhhhhh just kidding again.. i have no idea why. anybody??
ME THE BASICS OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION, CURB SETTING, ELECTRICAL GAUGING AND GRADING, CHARGING, BRAZING, PLUMBING ETC....ONCE THEY TOOK MY LEASH OFF AND LET ME GO I WENT HARD AND MADE MYSELF INDESPENCEABLE TO THE COMPANY AND NOW I MAKE SALARY THAT NO ONE SNEEZES AT PLUS COMMISSION PLUS PROFIT SHARING, IM A KING AT MY COMPANY...HALF ASSED CHUMPS THAT DONT PUT IN THE WORK AND PROVE LOYALTY DONT DESERVE SHIT...GIMME YER CARD YOU CAN COME MOW MY UPPER THREE ACRES.
YOU DONT DESERVE WHAT THEY ULTIMATE PAYOFF IS...IM A 10 YEAR TECH WHO STARTED OUT GREEN N WET ON THE GUTTER CREW HANGIN SEAMS IN THE FOOTHILLS ON HIGH PITCH ROOFS COVERED IN VULKEM LIKE A CHUMP FOR TWO YEARS GOT INTO THE SHOP BREAKIN WALL CAP AND CLEAT AFTER ANOTHER YEAR FINALLY GOT IN THE ATTIC RUNNIN DUCT ALL DAY BREATHIN CELLULOSE N GLASS WOOL WITH NO RESPECT FOR THREE YEARS AFTER SIX YEARS MY COMPANY FINALLY DECIDED I WAS DEDICATED AND LOYAL AND STARTED SHOWING
@TONYTRAXX...I DONT KNOW WHAT STATE YOUR IN, BUT HERE IN CALI EVEN A GREENHORN NOOB WITH NO EXP AND NO TOOLS WILL MAKE AROUND TEN...AND JUST COMIN OUT OF SCHOOL YOU THINK YOUR GOONA WALK IN A COMPANY AND START THROWIN YOUR DICK AROUND? PLEASE...THIS IS AN HONORABLE TRADE JUST LIKE PLUMBING, ELECTRIC, CARPENTRY...HELL EVEN MORE SO BECAUSE IT INCORPORATES ALL OTHER TRADES IN ONE...IF YOU CANT HACK THE HAZE AND RITUAL RANK SYSTEM
@linearrecords12 Hey, only speaking from experience, until it's proven otherwise to me I'll have to stick with my first thought, like I said not all but most,,sorry just been my experience, I own a small shop (9 guys) and the last three african-americans we had totally fucked me over, one guy would show up to a jobsite and find the shade on the roof and text all fucking day, the next a mexican had a bad habit of stealing other trade guys tools, I could go on and on but this isn't the place
I am 17 and im in a technical vocational high school, and i take HVAC/r.....there are two different shop weeks with students in them and out of roughly 25 kids in each week their is only 1 black kid, he is very intelligent and knows alot about the trade. I am guessing alot of it has to do with his parenting and how they are very good and influenced him in good ways.
I know you are saying it black & white on BLACKS and WHITES relating to this trade. I take it as a `positive motivation' for someone to enter in these great trades!
I must continue,the fire fighter are italian and irish.We as black people sometimes hurt our self by tearing up our own neighborhoods.That alone puts others on defense.Others identify with their own kind and many white people dont want to be botherd with some of us blackmen.I am on my own quest to get trained but with out jobs giving us a fair chance many blackmen get discouraged.You have to walk in our shoes to feel the pain.I hope you can help me more with my training.
I'm a college graduate,and journeyman electrician that is unemployed.It is not cultural it is straight racism.I am currently trying to learn this trade and would accept your help and training.The fact is most companies dont want a black face to represent them or there company.I have experienced this too many times.Companies will hire a white male with less experience than a black man who is proficient.As for fire man the tests are set up that only white males succed.Look at the demographics.
You are a brave man. I would wonder if I had the balls to ask that question.
However, being you broached the question this is what I think the real reason is. While it is easy to simply look around a room, and see a bunch of white guys, and assume that they were hired because they were white.
I think that too often, hiring is done at family get togethers, I had run into jobs that too often all of the workers are in-laws, and I found that I did not have a chance, even though I am white.
I'm black and I'm have a interview for an hvac apprenticeship on march 3 in nj
iphone3gsdivine 4 days ago
this is so crazy..someone just said this to me while i was signing up for this course at lincoln tech...great video..
black male
FLATFEET3 4 days ago
Im black and Im new to hvac....I didn't know about this problem ...scares me alil bit ....but I'm sooo dedicated ....I hope this isn't a problem wen I graduate
ScorpioNy6 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
US population - white 79.96%, black 12.85% that's the difference - it's not interest, it's simple math ... numbers. The skills aptitude, opportunity and interest are there but you do not live in an area where you can see it. The USAF has always had a very substantial black American representation in electronics, electrical, and HVAC fields so I know that what you are saying is more perception than actuality.
ometec 1 month ago
You gained an up incoming Asian hvac technician :) I'm going to be taking classes in the hvac field at my local community college soon!
bob21colts 1 month ago
What advice do you have for a person attending a trade school, with aspirations to become a qualified Hvac & refrigeration Technician?
In short,,, what are the keys to success in the industry?
johnny30806 2 months ago
@johnny30806 I've made a few different videos on this. Please check out HVAC five years experience.
DrZarkloff 2 months ago
99% hvac technicians in DOMINICAN REPUBLIC are black, and i m one of them. i enjoy your videos by the way. good luck and keep it up!!
refripart00 2 months ago
Excellent question. I have wondered this myself.
I am enrolled in an Hvac & Refrigeration trades school now.
Keep in mind this is a "hands on training trade school"
We have 10 mods in the training program.
85% of the students in the class are black,
In mod 1= Intro to Hvac, we had 5% flunk out due to grades or attendance.
In mod 2= Basic math and electrical, we had 15% flunk out due to grades.
we have 8 mods left to complete and the students are dropping off like flies.
johnny30806 2 months ago
It not why are there so few blacks its why are there so few skilled hvac techs period. Walk into a part store and look at your competition. I feel like im surrounded by idiots. Kids now a days do not want to do blue collar work. Half the ones that do take no pride in there work. 90 percent of the attics I walk into the HVAC installations make me sick. Sorry but it takes alot more than writing up a proposal to make it in HVAC. I don't think the upcoming generation can handle it.
gwozhog 2 months ago
Same reason you don't see many women. I'm a female construction trades sheet metal apprentice, and by a miracle I've made it to 80%. While the union and the JATC try to be blind to color, gender, etc, that's not always true of the Journeymen in the field. Those guys decide whether to teach real skills, or whether to use you for grunt work only. Bias exists subtly. Change is slow. I work harder than my white male brothers, & make less headway. Frustrating and many decide it's not worth it.
WonkyGirl 2 months ago
@WonkyGirl wonky Gril, I know what you are talking about! These clowns tried to do the same thing to me. Go get that, lift this. No knowledge.... I started running with companies almost for free, and guess what.... I should have been paying those companies for all the knowledge I stole in the progress. You really have to stand in these shoes to understand the foolishness. Hang in there girl!!!
MasterStreetTeacher 2 months ago
i hear you bro.im a black hvac tech at the start of my career. i cant explain why there are so few black hvac techs, i know a couple. my class had 4 blacks that started and i ended up being the only one to get a certificate and epa license.i cant say that its super hard it just takes knowing the equipment,the tools and the sequence of operation.i really think its just not talked about as a career choice throughout the black community. it can easily be a HS shop class to get blacks interested
YoungTon22 2 months ago
NOT A PROBLEM..WHO THE HELL CARE IF THERE IS MORE WHITES DOING HVAC. IT JUST TO MUCH WORK FOR A BLACK MAN TO DO
lincolniteron 2 months ago
I ask the same question myself! HVAC is about four trades in one, and many people scare to tackle hard stuff. I am a student of HVAC, only two of us blacks in the class. The electrical side to the trade, is hard, then there is a Mechanical side to the trade, a chemical side to the trade, and many black people want easy challenge. This is the honest truth.
MegaBull8 3 months ago
I'm a 21 year old African American Female in the Air Force. I'm currently a Aircraft mechanic deployed in Bagram Afghanistan. I came across this video because I'm interested in cross training into Civil Engineering HVAC ( fire fighting is also on my list of potential future career changes). I've grown up in a family of technicians and fire fighters, it is all I know. So I'm not understand this assumption that there are no blacks in these fields.
dtownstud90 3 months ago
you go Da young beast50
mrmitcheyb 4 months ago
if they are qualified , get in it !
mrmitcheyb 4 months ago
im a black man and I jus pass my EPA test last week. I am a universal certified technichan.
DaYoungBeast50 4 months ago
@DaYoungBeast50 takes more than an epa to get a job
mrmitcheyb 4 months ago
@DaYoungBeast50 takes more than the epa bud
mrmitcheyb 4 months ago
I am black male and I will have my certifications in 2 months.. i feel like i have the basics to have a great career in hvac!!! we will be taking the epa608 and Nate I can't wait im very excited
sneakerfreaktv 4 months ago
My name is Thomas. I'm from southern NJ. I
'm a qualified tech looking for more experience. Universally certified 608, other safety certs, and looking to score my ice cert soon. What i and others in my area have found was that : The contractors of this area prodominately seek those with 5yrs experience or more. I just can't figure out how to get the experience if no one hires me. Any advice for a good guy trying to better his living condition?
TOMAHAWK212 4 months ago
@TOMAHAWK212 If it is possible for you, try to take an internship. You will not be paid but, you will acquire experience. Some internship require few hours a week.
Teraelectron 2 months ago
My Name is Thomas and I am 35 and CEO of Robason Heat and Air Inc. and I agree with you that there is a decline in good quality people that are available in this field. Not to mention the number of companies out there that are doing below par workmanship at a very cheap price. . Visit us at getcoolorcozydotcom We service Granbury, Fort Worth, Burleson, Cleburne, Weatherford, and surrounding Texas cities.
GetCoolOrCozy 4 months ago
The answer is simple you have to be smart to be an Ac tech and let's face it most blacks don't have the brains not all most they put a value on fancy cars clothes the way there girl looks etc if more black parents raised there kids with books instead of tv there would be more black hvac techs
accontractor 4 months ago
north american trade school in maryland if you black the police will fuck with you run your tag while you in school a police out there told me when they pulled me over do not wear your uniform when you get out of school they be looking for that fuck that school i just left i have to deal with that shit in the hood if you black and go to that school watch yourself the teachers are army rejects that school was bullshit
budstattfgangsta 4 months ago
Drzarloff..........The HVAC trade needs to be in the high schools, that's where you will be able to attract not only black males but young white males as well. not everyone is cut out for college but you can make a great living in the hvac field if you are motivated and have a mechanical aptitude. if you have the proper credentials and are a hard worker you will get hired by someone. black or white.
tls2156 5 months ago 4
@tls2156 It's a real shame that many secondary schools are discontinuing to have the trades taught. A lot of kids have to wait til they graduate from high school to learn a trade.
DrZarkloff 4 months ago
@tls2156
I believe the reason for so few blacks in my eyes is no one really wants to spend time training anymore even after going to school. Not so much as a lack of desire. Put me in the game coach! Then we can exceed! You don't know what we can do if we're never put in the game.
SeerEyes 4 months ago
Drzarloff ......The hvac field is a great field for any one 18 or older to explore. there are many sub- fields within the field. there is hvac controls and programming, chiller service technician, air balancing, etc. but the big problem is that not many people know about these professions many of the guys in the field right now are quite old. the field needs more exposure because it is also missing a lot of young white males but it is even worse for young black males.
tls2156 5 months ago
Drzarloff you pose a very interesting question. before i attempt to answer the question i will give you a little background on myself. i am a black male with an Associates of science degree in HVAC/R. I have worked in the commercial hvac service industry and stationary/building engineering. now i know your question will draw a lot of under cover racists from under the covers and they will post their hateful generalities about blacks.
tls2156 5 months ago
lazyness..period i saw many blacks in my school that got the free ride from the gov. while i paid full price for tuition they spent their time gettin high in the parkung lot and cracking jokes disrupting class i studied did well and im doing well in the field just my experience
waters65 5 months ago
I think that you should concentrate on just getting students instead of this color barrier that your keeping alive. I would think that at your age, you would know that some information isnt readily available to some people, some neighborhoods, some cities and so on and so on. Some people just dont want to deal with being outside, in an attic heat. It doesnt appear to be a glamorous field and this is purely my oppinion but lets try and kill racism instead of keeping it alive.
KINGREABO 5 months ago
that question is racist. pimps aint got time fo that
TheReelblack 5 months ago
Posted by a white man. I respect that you would be so bold to address this point. I stumbled on it while trying to find a reasonable HVAC tech. Can you help me understand why I am being charged 3-4K to install a mini split I purchased for 1.2K?
hrhkee 5 months ago
@hrhkee That's a question that you need to take up with the installer. It's a good question. I just don't know the answer.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
I found a contractor to deploy the unit for $300 and an HVAC person to certify and tweak it for $800. I believe that is reasonable. As for your post: I don't see you as being racist. You are simply keeping it real. I respect that. One day address the reason a lot of people in HVAC, plumbing, electrical and contracting are broke and cant find work. Thank you.
hrhkee 5 months ago
Do the math. An A/C company has to charge to stay in business. They are not doing installs every day so when they do they have to make up for it. Also most companies lose big time money in the winter because the phone does not ring. They have to cary insurance, workmans comp, and health insurance for there employees. An A/C company needs to do atleast 4-5k per truck on the road a week to basically break even. Then we have to Warranty it too. That is why you are paying 3-4k for an install.
gwozhog 1 month ago
@gwozhog agreed and the last thing we need is people buying their own equipment..anyone that wants us to install their equipment will pay more. if we will even do it
06reagan 3 weeks ago
@hrhkee what on earth does the man being white have to do with him being bold??
buddymcc1 1 month ago
@hrhkee it would have probably been cheaper to call an hvac company and get a bid for a turn key job. i know my company charges more if the customer has purchased their own equipment and NO WARRANTY. we don't need people selling hvac equipment over the internet. this has already put other types of businesses out of business. i for one hope every company out there charges people who buy their own equipment double. who is to say you even bought the right size? you did your own load as well?
06reagan 3 weeks ago
IM A BLACK MAN AND I JUST FINISHED A COURSE IN H-VAC. THIS MAY HURT A LITTLE TO SOME BLACKS BUT SOME OF US JUST DONT HIT THE BOOKS HARD ENOUGH. I DO BLAM SOME OF THE SCHOOLS AND SOME OF THE PARENT. BUT THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS IM NOT GOING TO WAIT ON SOME WHITE COMPANY TO HIRE ME. IF YOU STUDY UR ASS OFF AND THANK GOD FOR YOUTUBE, AND APPLY IT. START YOUR OWN DOG. JUST LOOK AT OTHER RACE, THE DONT LET THE WHITE MAN STOP THEIR PROGRESS
accdawsons 5 months ago
I am also in the HVAC field, Ive only been doing it for 6months now, and Ive also wondered the same thing. In your opinion, how long does it take a person to get where they are pretty knowledgeable in the HVAC field. Currently I mostly do installation work, and once in awhile I go on service calls with a service tec. I love my job most days, and eventually I would like to start my own bussiness, do you have any advice?
glensmalll 6 months ago
@glensmalll It really does take about five years of experience to make a good tech.
DrZarkloff 6 months ago
Maybe it's because in predominantly black neighborhoods the cops are heavy. They nail all the niggas for frivilous stuff like rolling stops or whatever. Then when they can't pay the fine their driver's license is suspended.
How many HVAC techs are there with no drivers license?
Isn't that a requirement?
crutmauler 6 months ago
it's not just blacks it's young people in general. they all want to take to check to the bank and not work. this field is a tough field. and none of the young folks want to work for it. Americans are getting lazier by the generation. just my opinion
biggidaman777 6 months ago
You want to know why...Because Mexicans are taking their jobs. Seriously, is that your biggest question to the world?
Itaintnutn 6 months ago
you think too much. Why are you making a race issue out of this? so you would hire the blcak guy over me just cause hes black? ahhhh- thats racism dude
MrBigezee69 6 months ago
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MrBigezee69 6 months ago
The blacks are being replaced with wiggers, no need for blacks when you can hire a wigger.
AnthonyReikow69 7 months ago
hello HVAC's i have went to school for this career an been doing it for 8 years; with black ppl i see in todays world are service techs,maintenance,and or working at a parts supply house! But for the past 6 years, all i do is [change outs] an just the installation of taking out the old air conditioners an or ductwork/ an finish in a day! Trust me there can not be a black soul that can do what i do/ an technical stuff...!
krustykreed1 7 months ago in playlist whoa???
actually i've seen of hvac african americans going to school out here in the bay area...
savator408 7 months ago
I work at a research lab for HVAC many of the interns are black. They are on the way. wish them good luck.
tasp9 7 months ago
Hey Doc, if my evaporator coil is dirty will my AC still cool but have high humidity in house? Right now it's 80 degrees outside with 94% humidity. Inside it's 70 degrees with 69% humidity. The system used to keep the house around 55% humidity.
wb6162 7 months ago
@wb6162 You might want to clean both the evaporator and condensing coils. Then, see if that improves things.
DrZarkloff 7 months ago
It's hard, dirty work requiring intelligence, honesty and skill. Also requires motivation and integrity. Good luck with your search.
wb6162 7 months ago
It's not that there is so few black HVAC tech, its that the requirements for the job is set very high for someone just getting into this field. And it far to many that give up or let these requirements holod them back. the best advance that was give to me was IF NO ELSE WILL HIRE YOU , HIRE YOURSELF. I have been through school and have the certification and still have not been hired YET.
nuair2010 7 months ago
Why do u care so much lol...maybe cause this job sucks
evitafab 7 months ago
your a POS
fred30680 7 months ago
I am 25yo white dude just starting to learn HVAC industry and spending loads of hours watching youtube videos and reading sites in the last couple days, funny thing is a black HVAC tech got me into wanting to learning about air conditoners. I always thought HVAC takes too long to learn, too much money, you have to work for some company for too long and sorta thought you had to be a plumber or 2 both at the same time which is even more money etc...
BlueToad2222 7 months ago
Hello, This day the comany don't even wanted to hire a student just finish the HVAC schools.
toldaesun 7 months ago
I need to put on some hip waders after reading some of the comments here. First off most larger companies hire minorities to guard against discrimination claims and also because as Doc says to help bring in buisiness as some people feel more comfortable with techs the same race in their homes or buisinesses and some techs will not go into some neighborhoods which goes for black, white or hispanic. Their is no reason any qualified tech can not find a job or get training in the field.
150grnballistictip 7 months ago
why do you want blacks, do you want attitude or be sued
TheReelblack 8 months ago
@TheReelblack ...golden rule...treat others like you want to be treated...as long as an employer does this they generally wont have to worry so much about being sued...but if you kno ur a crooked beast then maybe Thereelblack has a point.
dlocklear38 2 months ago
After many years of using affirmative action, minorities will have a foothold on the trade industry, more minority owned businesses in the field, more outlets to plug into as a young minority trying to perfect his hvac craft, remember, you cant perfect the skill, if you aint working in it. Humor my suggestions and know they are valid..I work in NC.
dlocklear38 8 months ago
SOLUTION-"Affirmative action"-The leadership of companies will NOT see pass the color of a techs skin if left to their own devices, the job of the government is to do for the people what they cannot do for themselves...industry is greed driven...therefore leadership will do whats necc. to please the customer not ness. what is right, I say again "affirmative action" when there are 2 qualified techs, give it to the monority, the leadership will not do it unless uncle sam makes em.
dlocklear38 8 months ago
@dlocklear38 Really affirmitive action is the solution? "when there are 2 qualified techs, give it to the monority" Maybe you should check a dictionary and look up racism. When you have two qualified techs and you hire the minority because he's a minority....that's racism. Affirmitave action is racism at its best.
karuss02 7 months ago
@karuss02 in my opinion, yes. C, while tryn to come up in the field iv had several techniques run on me that iv identified and noticed as patterns amoung the leaders in the industry at the tech level(u kno...where the tire meets the road), 1- technique is to be put on the side line as far as the distribution of the work load...if u r given all calls that require only the skills of an entry level tech and never get a chance to tackle more difficult work your skill growth CAN be hendered.
dlocklear38 2 months ago
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dlocklear38 8 months ago
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dlocklear38 8 months ago
#2-Customers chose the company they want to service their equipment, if they feel they cant trust the tech to come into their home they will call the next company. The companies suffer business loss if they send a minority out to their homes. TRUST, lack of it is why there are very little minority techs...so why should a company hire a black tech if they think the customer base will reject them and take their business elsewhere? Retorical question.
dlocklear38 8 months ago
First i would like to state im a minority hvac tech, 14yrs experience in all, there is no single anwser to the problem of why there are so few blacks or minorities in the hvac field, but im gonna attempt to scratch the surface with an anwser or two and a SOLUTION! #1 Reason there are so few blacks or minorities is the obvious and simple reason, there are less minorities than whites, roughly 90% of the population of the US are white people! Simple. see next comment!
dlocklear38 8 months ago
who cares what color they are? Stop thinking about color, just get people who want to learn to do the job....
dmb3428 8 months ago
It's so disheartening reading about those who can't find a job. I know how that could be but if there is a will there is a way. I suggest calling or joining your local union. Join an association or something, I mean come on. Let's stop making this a black thing. I think what is happening now is that these companies are doing background checks and these checks do prevent people from getting jobs (whether you're black, white, hispanic, whatever)...
kmoorer74 8 months ago
I'm a black woman and I am so excited about getting into this field. I previously worked in sales at a major telecommunications company and got burned out. This is my second career. I'm not sure why there are so few blacks in the field...I can only speak for myself but a black HVAC tech actually encouraged me to get into this field. As a woman, I expect push back and raised eyebrows but I have to provide for my family just as anyone else involved in this industry.
kmoorer74 8 months ago
@kmoorer74 I start tech school next month and after about a year and a half I plan to do an apprenticeship or look into joining a union. Whichever works...
kmoorer74 8 months ago
@kmoorer74 I wish you the best.
DrZarkloff 8 months ago
@moorer74 Hey Doc, Im a 32 year old black male. I truly love working on HVAC systems. I have only been working on HVAC for only two years. But, I can truly say I really love it. 13 years ago I came to Atlanta for the electrical trade. Now I will say that Electrical is my first love , but heating and Air has me really excited to learn more. This is really a fun , challenging , and exciting trade that also requires a lot of continuing education. I really would reccomend this trade to all BLACKS!!!
850dainjaruss 6 months ago
@kmoorer74 Go For It I just started in Miami!
Andrenostalgic 6 months ago
How about women?
prebaned 8 months ago
Hello, I am a Girl and I am getting ready to open my own Business as soon as my husband gives me the divorce he so badly wants. We ran our hvac/r business together for 18 years. I went to HVAC school, I'm EPA cerified and ready to go. Do you have any tips?
Gerilyn13 8 months ago
@Gerilyn13 Good job and good luck. It sounds like you could give me some tips. I congratulate you.
DrZarkloff 8 months ago
@prebaned Very true. I'm still waiting for a female tech to make a video.
DrZarkloff 8 months ago
hi i have twenty years on the field, as you now some times we work after hours and some weekends to get the job ready but that something that the workers they dont care they just want they many on weekend and that's it
erosuli 8 months ago
im black man 27 and a dj and also a tech and i been doing this for hvac for 2 years and doing my own business i do all units and also cars hvac.. and trust me im nice.. thanks to my teacher who drilled hvac in to my head.. (latten heat) lol
djtnt321boom 8 months ago
i don't have a criminal record im black an i live in miami,fl i graduated from a school call a.t.i an i still haven't find a job the school supposed to have the jobs ready for me but i notice down here they hire mostly hispanics or white, but im not mad about that they should even that out. but theirs alot of blacks in a/c they just work for their self in the streets like me an i have a degree in major appliances in the same course with the a/c course im thinking of moving out of miami to ATL,GA
LUVJONES305 8 months ago
Dr Zarkloff, first, I'm a big fan of your videos - I wish more people would be so dedicated to helping others. In regards to the question, I just got in the HVAC field and have been applying and applying sending resumes and calling and nobody wants to hire ANYONE with 0 experience. My friends tell me to lie and say I done 6 months, but that's not me. I even live in Texas where AC is in high demand, but am still struggling to get in. Every body wants 5 years exp, that's a big problem in the US.
starchild2121 8 months ago
@starchild2121 You're right about few HVAC contractors wanting to hire people new to the trade. What ever you do, never lie on an application. It will bite you in the ass.
DrZarkloff 8 months ago
@starchild2121 EXACTLY! I live in Louisiana and same problem. I grew up in the HVAC trade, father, grandfather, uncle, and step father are all involved. I went through school, paid my money, did my studying (HOURS!) and got my certification. I applied everywhere, even places too far for me even to consider traveling for work but same answer...we want a tech with 10 years experience at least. Bullshit. I did my time now I should be considered for a job.
MattixIcexBaby 8 months ago
@starchild2121 What are you going to do when "10 years xp" all run out? Just not have any techs? No, your finally going to have to hire young people trying to learn the trade. I'm by no means an expert but I can't get a job, hell I can't even get some of these old hands to show me anything because they think I'll turn into a shade tree and take away their business. That is why I said piss on the HVAC field. Some dreams you must give up on sadly.
MattixIcexBaby 8 months ago
I just finished an AAS in HVAC/R and my class only had 4 black men in it. Rather odd, considering it was a large city with a black population nearing 50%. Two were older guys, married with kids, and were displaced workers. The other two were guys my age (20s) working regular jobs already. All very capable guys. Two have already found work, not sure about the others...but there will be at least 4 more sooner than later, I'd imagine.
andxx0r 9 months ago
Well lets see----we used to hire a lot of guys (black white spanish) many of whom were working on some kind of education---and every one of them was working toward a job that was out of the heat and physical labor--(if one isn't dreaming of owning his own company).Its one thing to apprentice to a "construction" type job,quite another to have to go to school for it.I imagine if I were to go to class a career with low start up cost and the day taking place outside of a hot attic would be preferred
MrDknuckle 9 months ago
Well lets see----we used to hire a lot of guys (black white spanish) many of whom were working on some kind of education---and every one of them was working toward a job that was out of the heat and physical labor--(if one isn't dreaming of owning his own company).Its one thing to apprentice to a "construction" type job,quite another to have to go to school for it.I imagine if I were to go to class a career with low start up cost and the day taking place outside of a hot attic would be prefered
MrDknuckle 9 months ago
Im in trade school here in Chicago, and we have more Black Americans than any other race, But the problem is the lack if guidance at home. And Im Black American myself. Im only in the trade becauser of the desire to better myself. but over all we need to get it together!
TheBeeno2 9 months ago
too much is expected of a black guy during training, a black guy got to be very very good just to get to average, they not gonna get their t's crossed or their i's dotted by the trainer unlike their white counterpart, I tried it once, cost of books alone, damned.
debayzee 9 months ago
I am a Black Man that graduated HVAC school in March of '10. Whether it's the color of my skin or the lack of experience is why I'm not working in the field has yet to be determined. If it's lack of experience, how is anyone supposed to get experience, if no one is willing to take the chance on giving them experience? If it's due to the color of skin, employers are missing out on great workers. Their loss. Good luck to everyone that's looking to break into the trade. Love the video.
blckrhno 9 months ago 2
@fisherman3694 Back in the early 1940's my dad and his brother, sons of two Russian immigrants, became HVAC techs in St.Louis. He moved down to Tenn. Dad hired and trained a Mexican kid who wanted to learn when nobody else would and that kid became a self-employed HVAC tech.
For you to call a working class guy a racist who just said he wants to hire black techs shows that you are either not paying attention or are just plain knee jerk stupid. Ever work with tools hotshot?
EdVidz 9 months ago
i work in the film and TV production industry. i am technical-natured. back in 1992 i took the ASE test to certify myself to be able to install and purchase R-12 in automobiles. then they were going to require a license for it. autozone had the test right there at the cash register, so i took it and passed it and got licensed. about 4 years ago i took the R22 course (self taught)and also in recovery and now have a license in that. i mainly did it just to have, and to also maintain my system.
marctronixx 9 months ago
I'm a minority and I'm in the trade and working FT. now only if you can sign me up for refrigeration apprenticeship that would be awesome.
voncobain 9 months ago
The reason there are so few black HVAC techs where (Houston, Tx) I live is because the companies around here are just NOT willing to train people, no matter what race you are. I dont understand it at all. I'm new too the field and have been looking for my break for the longest of time. Its not a race thing (I'm black), its just that companies around here just arent willing to train for the most part.
nateduece 9 months ago
Alright, Doc, let's see if we can't explain this. I'm in school for HVAC in the Detroit area. I'm white and most of my class is black. However, after talking to them, I know that most have criminal records. Great guys, just messed up when they were younger. And companies here don't want criminal records in their company so many a contractor has told me they won't hire the majority of applicants. Terrible, really because one of the best students in the class is black.
blocksopiff 9 months ago
@blocksopiff I think that criminal records have to be looked at on an individual basis.
DrZarkloff 9 months ago
@DrZarkloff True. However, these guys all pretty much have either heavy drug related charges or assaults on their records from back when they were in high school. Companies are going to look at that when making a decision for employment. Thinking of it from a company's point of view, I'd have a hard time reconciling myself with hiring a total stranger with a record for assault or major drug charges. Knowing these guys, though, I'd have a hard time walking away. They know their stuff.
blocksopiff 9 months ago
i live in kansas city missouri, i was in the top of my class, i am white and i had a job waiting for me when i got out of high school. there was one black person in my class, i would never hire him, he was the dumbest out of the whole class and had a terrible attitude.
christvlsn 9 months ago
The technical fields have such a shortage in general because they tend to only recruit people within their respective fields, this is mainly due to short sigthed thinking to generate profit on a short term basis instead of nuturing and training our young. Alot of these professions can seem like a closed door to all young people.
peterdayrl 10 months ago
I love ur video, i am hispanic went to college for this and love the opportunity to work with u. I wrote in ur e-mail before on something else before. I am close to black because i am a little dark (lol). Sometimes i feel no-one wants me because of that reason. But i am going to think positve. I am a very hard worker and just want to be giving the chance to work in the field. If u like i can e-mail u my resume that i have made up. My e-mail address is ventureman78@aol.com. thanks
ventureman1971 10 months ago
why black hvac. can we filipinos be brown hvac.
romualdorendora 10 months ago
I knew a few black dudes in my car repair class for Toyota! :)
terceldude 10 months ago
Well I am a african-american male. Just got out of school for HVAC/R 21 no record & im finding it hard to get a job in philadelphia it bothers me everyday. Im just starting off & I guess no one wants to take a shot on me but im going to work my tail off to get an equal opprotunity like everyone else Now as far as the rest of my counter parts I see it as everyone wants the fast money don't want to work but want mney. I don't get it nothing comes easy or overnight & i'm finding that out.
philliboi11 10 months ago
I did molecular cell biology and electronics at university. There were so few black people on those courses. In electronics, I think I saw one black guy in a 100-200 person lab session. However, if I looked at the photos of the graduate students, almost all of them were Asian. I heard Chris Rock making a joke about Bill Gates being wealthy and white and thought, well I can answer that. The reason he's so wealthy is he also put with growing up being called a nerd studying nerdy stuff.
lexichronicle2 10 months ago
people don't want want blacks in their homes
tonystang66 10 months ago
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of those blacks that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and pasted the epa certi exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
SonofSam357 10 months ago
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of those blacks that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and past the epa certification exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
SonofSam357 10 months ago
Hey im black and im on your page trying to learn more im cretified, but still dont know much about it.I fill that most black cant afforde schooling and the debt that comes with it ,since we due have the highest debt ratio.Any how Im one of thoes black that cant afforde the school but watch your videos along with other videos and past the epa certification exam.But as you know you can be certified and still not know shit about ac.will you help with some free material or dvd help me get started?
SonofSam357 10 months ago
this is a good question im finishing up my ass. in HVAC and the 1.5 yrs i've been in school theres only been 3 other brothers in my classes and now that im cert. i still cant find work so maybe that why cause most of us know we wont get work in HVAC
good vid any way thou
hvac3rd 11 months ago
i am a african american service tech who cannot get a job, i have applied to several companies, they are not trying to give people a chance do you have any suggestions
?
one4yourjob 11 months ago
Why ask Why?
Rareed63 11 months ago
black are 13% of the population, so if there are around that percentage of HVAC-R technicians out there in the field, then its normal.
adelsamhan 11 months ago
your right bro and if blacks do get a job in hvac/r , they are going to be under paid. I am from Trinidad & Tobago, living in DC, been in the field 9 years now , work for 2 hvac/r company since i left school (very short term employment) with my 9yrs experience i still get treated like i now left school.Now i work for myself and trying to take there customers away with affordable prices.
simpleiree133 11 months ago
your right bro and if blacks do get a job in hvac/r , they are going to be under paid.
simpleiree133 11 months ago
It's not a white or black issue. We can see a short person or tall person. We can see black or white. Ever see a person with a cliff lip? Well our brains are much like that cliff lip, only in a brain you do not see the cliff lip. We all are the same yet devolpe differently. That is the reason we all act differnet. It is all so natures way of protecting us. Like why does a black person get cycle cell and a white does not
itsallbullsh 11 months ago
What you say is true. But why are there more blacks in basket ball now or most other sports? Because they very good, better then the mexican or white guy. So use that same approch to your question. BTW I have grown up doing this trade, now 56 and if I could do it all agin I would RUN to any other trade. HVAC way under paid for what we know.
itsallbullsh 11 months ago
I work in the Washington DC area and I've noticed that a lot of the black technicians don't bother working for small business, they will start their own HVAC companies because they have a lot of networking within the community which whites generally don't have. I've also seen this with the Asian technicians, they have the ability to generate customers within the Asian community that will hire them because of like ethnicity. Face it, whites are so diverse they don't tend to network
JesusNonEnviromental 11 months ago
@JesusNonEnviromental Great comment.
DrZarkloff 11 months ago
You have made an astute observation. In most all technical fields there is a very low representation of blacks. I believe that the young guys don't see many people that look like them doing that kind of work, so they don't relate to the profession. In the past if blacks were given OTJ training and aprenticeship oppurtunities, hence greater representation and role models, then these stats may be different. This can be changed today by hiring managers and contractors. Give them a shot.
jjfranklinbhm 11 months ago
i am a black male from england. The problem we have over here is that there are loads of jobs for hvac techs ,plumbers, electricains and other engineering roles but the problem is that no one wants to take on apprentices/trainees. All the companys want experienced people and the companys that do take on trainees mite take on one or two and like over 100 people will apply for it. more techs need to be like you offering to pass on there knowledge. they just say they dont have the time.
nolimit7 11 months ago
*experienced
VolusiaCounty800 1 year ago
i am white but a religious minority. i have experianced prejudice from fellow techs. often, they form cliqs and push out anyone they don't want around. they create reasons to lay-off or fire good minority techs and pressure managers. i've finally found a good company to work for and hope others will too.
VolusiaCounty800 1 year ago
I am a 43 yr old African American who is very interested in the field, my question for you is what sort of biz do you mean you can get? do you mean location or parts of town white techs won't go into? if so "SOME" blk folk dont even trust other black techs because bad experiances with un-trained or under trained "jack of all tradesmen" who happen to be black .Also Igot a job in the limo industry once, to later find out that I was hired because I am black, so off to da hood they sent me.
MrTimbo901 1 year ago
My son-in-law got his certification, but he's from Jamaica
chuckbyf1 1 year ago
I'm one of the minority HVAC Tech here in Northern,VA. One company hired me just because I was black but at the same time they wouldn't send me to any of the multi million dollar homes they had contracts with. Why because I hate to say some white homeowners question our diagnostic solutions.But last year i worked with a company last year that the minority Technician was white. I finally said I would go into business myself because I am proud of the work I do and not try to scam a homeowner!
RANGER96SSG 1 year ago
Hi Dr. I am very very surprised at this...3 of my cousins one female are HVAC technicians and many technicians that come out under my AHS warranty are black. I understand that there is a problem hiring qualified people period especially the younger generation.
kyat67 1 year ago
In my case it has to be a social problem. I have just recieved my epa's 2months ago. I was introduced to HVAC 4yrs ago from my brother inlaw. But I think the word in going around now faster than ever. But once I learn the trade I will make shure this trade stay in my family for generations to come.
THEREALIZEBIRD6 1 year ago
I stay in macon and some of the companies down here dont want to hire black echs, i graduated in june of 2009 and hve been putting in applactions me and another dude tht came out with me and he is white , the tell me they are not hiring and he gets the job
sc33by1 1 year ago
As a Haitian person I had an opportunity to go to HVAC school in Boston.but I've always wanted to go down south for better opportunity.my had 21 blacks including myself,3 whites and 1 spanic.out of 29 blacks I'm the only one who's keeping up with HVAC because I have the chance to move to Atlanta I had a privillege to work in apt complexes.and I'm also passionate for HVAC as well,now my blacks friends couldn't never have an interview in Boston because companies asking for 5 to 10 years of e
lolly2cute 1 year ago
When I was in HVAC class there was only one black student out of 22 of us. My guess is that they don't have the interest in learning this field. In order to train a technician the first thing is they have to take interest in HVAC trade. The black student was in the top 3 because he had a strong interest and he paid attention. But if a person has no interest (regardless of race) he/she will not learn no matter how much of an earning potential they can have.
Psycho9263 1 year ago
I actually would beg to differ. My stepfather is in the HVAC supply business, and I have noted we have quite a few regular black customers. One of them in particular is probably one of the most knowledgeable of them all. i mean, sure there aren't as many as there are whites, but thats just relative to percentages, no?
afoordm 1 year ago
dont talk shit about total.
Binglung 1 year ago
@Binglung "You don't know what you are talking about you jive ass turkey"
711sanchez 1 year ago
you are weird as hell!... you should get out of your van more. maybe eat some grits and smoke a jay. then you might understand why there arent many "black" technicians. being black isnt exactly a hi tec way to be. niggas in this country werent bred for their smarts you know.
labrie1100 1 year ago
@labrie1100 thats the most ignorant thing i ever heard
linearrecords12 1 year ago
I am not sure what it takes to get someone to devote themselves to this trade. If you want to be good at best you need to live, eat , sleep , & breath HVAC because there is so much to understand and I have been in this buisness 10 years I have learned more in the last 3 years than the first 7. I also have tried to get several people jobs @ my place of work with them not giving an effort or not showing up for work and thats a hard pill to swallow in trying to keep my own reputation.
mikerochesterny 1 year ago
I'm an African American and I played around with technical studies my freshman year undergrad. I started off studying math & technical drawing, but I never made it my concentration. I changed major's after my freshman year to art because I simply didn't have the confidence to attempt so many years in architecture school and I feared failing out of the program and having to be in debt) I loved mathematics and technical art design but I didn't think I could develop industry level skills.
dadwolv 1 year ago
because niggers are fucking lazy and stupid and always have an atittude. there happy with the answer now mr. suckloft??? ahhhhh just kidding, there's no blk hvac teks cos nobody wants to send a ni999er to peoples homes. shit might go missing. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH just kidding. i dont' knwo why theres so few. maybe we should keep it that way. ahhhhhhhhhhhh just kidding again.. i have no idea why. anybody??
sickbastard80 1 year ago
@sickbastard80 because of attitudes like yours
linearrecords12 1 year ago
Thats not true here in new york there are a lot of black technician in the field
thats probably in the south were the racism still exist strongly a lot more than in the north.
marblehill99 1 year ago
ME THE BASICS OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION, CURB SETTING, ELECTRICAL GAUGING AND GRADING, CHARGING, BRAZING, PLUMBING ETC....ONCE THEY TOOK MY LEASH OFF AND LET ME GO I WENT HARD AND MADE MYSELF INDESPENCEABLE TO THE COMPANY AND NOW I MAKE SALARY THAT NO ONE SNEEZES AT PLUS COMMISSION PLUS PROFIT SHARING, IM A KING AT MY COMPANY...HALF ASSED CHUMPS THAT DONT PUT IN THE WORK AND PROVE LOYALTY DONT DESERVE SHIT...GIMME YER CARD YOU CAN COME MOW MY UPPER THREE ACRES.
masonrye 1 year ago
YOU DONT DESERVE WHAT THEY ULTIMATE PAYOFF IS...IM A 10 YEAR TECH WHO STARTED OUT GREEN N WET ON THE GUTTER CREW HANGIN SEAMS IN THE FOOTHILLS ON HIGH PITCH ROOFS COVERED IN VULKEM LIKE A CHUMP FOR TWO YEARS GOT INTO THE SHOP BREAKIN WALL CAP AND CLEAT AFTER ANOTHER YEAR FINALLY GOT IN THE ATTIC RUNNIN DUCT ALL DAY BREATHIN CELLULOSE N GLASS WOOL WITH NO RESPECT FOR THREE YEARS AFTER SIX YEARS MY COMPANY FINALLY DECIDED I WAS DEDICATED AND LOYAL AND STARTED SHOWING
masonrye 1 year ago
@TONYTRAXX...I DONT KNOW WHAT STATE YOUR IN, BUT HERE IN CALI EVEN A GREENHORN NOOB WITH NO EXP AND NO TOOLS WILL MAKE AROUND TEN...AND JUST COMIN OUT OF SCHOOL YOU THINK YOUR GOONA WALK IN A COMPANY AND START THROWIN YOUR DICK AROUND? PLEASE...THIS IS AN HONORABLE TRADE JUST LIKE PLUMBING, ELECTRIC, CARPENTRY...HELL EVEN MORE SO BECAUSE IT INCORPORATES ALL OTHER TRADES IN ONE...IF YOU CANT HACK THE HAZE AND RITUAL RANK SYSTEM
masonrye 1 year ago
Cause most of them are FUCKING LAZY !!!! Not all but most,,,,,LAZY mo fo's
Thesupersmith79 1 year ago
@Thesupersmith79 ignorant bitch
linearrecords12 1 year ago
@linearrecords12 Hey, only speaking from experience, until it's proven otherwise to me I'll have to stick with my first thought, like I said not all but most,,sorry just been my experience, I own a small shop (9 guys) and the last three african-americans we had totally fucked me over, one guy would show up to a jobsite and find the shade on the roof and text all fucking day, the next a mexican had a bad habit of stealing other trade guys tools, I could go on and on but this isn't the place
Thesupersmith79 1 year ago
@Thesupersmith79 so speaking from your vast experiences, all white HVAC are angels
linearrecords12 1 year ago
@Thesupersmith79 so speaking from your vast experiences, all white HVAC are angels
linearrecords12 1 year ago
The fantastic black HVAC Techs at GA Tech, Atlanta represent the cutting edge of tomorrow's techies... my hardhat's off to them!
pylgrym 1 year ago
Cheers to the great TECHS in HVAC at the Georgia Institute of Technology! from FL Tech techie...
pylgrym 1 year ago
I am 17 and im in a technical vocational high school, and i take HVAC/r.....there are two different shop weeks with students in them and out of roughly 25 kids in each week their is only 1 black kid, he is very intelligent and knows alot about the trade. I am guessing alot of it has to do with his parenting and how they are very good and influenced him in good ways.
celtics34champs 1 year ago 7
I know you are saying it black & white on BLACKS and WHITES relating to this trade. I take it as a `positive motivation' for someone to enter in these great trades!
fabrosin 1 year ago
I must continue,the fire fighter are italian and irish.We as black people sometimes hurt our self by tearing up our own neighborhoods.That alone puts others on defense.Others identify with their own kind and many white people dont want to be botherd with some of us blackmen.I am on my own quest to get trained but with out jobs giving us a fair chance many blackmen get discouraged.You have to walk in our shoes to feel the pain.I hope you can help me more with my training.
prizms100 1 year ago
I'm a college graduate,and journeyman electrician that is unemployed.It is not cultural it is straight racism.I am currently trying to learn this trade and would accept your help and training.The fact is most companies dont want a black face to represent them or there company.I have experienced this too many times.Companies will hire a white male with less experience than a black man who is proficient.As for fire man the tests are set up that only white males succed.Look at the demographics.
prizms100 1 year ago
Ders mo money in Rap and Crack. No way I gonna work fo da man.
Dinkkink 1 year ago
you couldn't with spelling skills like that
linearrecords12 1 year ago
i'm black just finished school at ati. now i'm looking for work
otisjmiami 1 year ago
You are a brave man. I would wonder if I had the balls to ask that question.
However, being you broached the question this is what I think the real reason is. While it is easy to simply look around a room, and see a bunch of white guys, and assume that they were hired because they were white.
I think that too often, hiring is done at family get togethers, I had run into jobs that too often all of the workers are in-laws, and I found that I did not have a chance, even though I am white.
RunRoyRun4SOS 1 year ago