Show overview
Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast has been publishing since 2023, and across the 3 years since has built a catalogue of 212 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 85 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence, with the show now in its 3rd season.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 19 min and 26 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 3 weeks ago, with 25 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2024, with 79 episodes published. Published by ESCO Institute.
From the publisher
The ESCO Institute "Did you Know?" podcast provides HVACR professionals access to reliable, up-to-date, and relevant information, directly from trusted sources. The world of HVACR has been changing at an exponential rate over the last few years; new SEER ratings, flammable refrigerants, and an array of technological advances. Keeping up with all the changes in regulation, manufacturing, refrigerants and how to properly prepare students and technicians has became daunting. Many of our guests are speakers and exhibitors at the HVAC EXCELLENCE National HVACR Education Conference and represent every sector of the HVACR industry. Thanks for joining in!
Latest Episodes
View all 212 episodesBuilding the Next Generation of HVAC Techs: Inside Delcastle Technical High School
Beyond the Classroom: What SkillsUSA Reveals About the Next Generation of HVAC Technicians
Tools for Tomorrow, Here Today: Inside Malco's Playbook for the Next Generation of HVAC Techs
Only Mostly Dead: The Truth About R-410A's Slow Fade-Out
Water From Thin Air: How HVAC Technology Could Help Solve Water Scarcity
Future-Proofing the Trades: Bridging Plumbing and HVAC, and the Power of Local Unions
Building Careers, Brotherhood and the Future Workforce
From Tutus to Tool Belts: Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in the Trades
The Skilled Trades Awakening: Greg Crumpton on HVAC, AI & the Future Workforce
The Three R’s of Refrigerant Stewardship: Recovery, Recycle & Reclaim with A-Gas
Smarter Safety in HVAC: Protecting Technicians with Real-Time CO Detection
The Refrigerant Reality Check: Why Recovery Matters More Than Ever
The Rise of Communicating HVAC Systems: Smarter Comfort, Smarter Service
To Recover...Or Not to Recover? Industry experts chime in at the National HVACR Education Conference
S3 Ep 48Replay: All Trades Paige on Redefining the Skilled Trades
We’re getting back up to speed after a great time at the National HVACR Education Conference last week — so while we catch up, we’re revisiting one of our favorite conversations from August 2025.In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Paige Knowles, better known as “All Trades Paige,” to talk about her journey from tech school student to skilled trades advocate, author, and industry trailblazer.We explore:• How Paige is breaking stereotypes and proving there’s no gender to a job• Why introducing younger generations to the trades early matters more than ever• How her books and content are helping families embrace hands-on skills• The role of collaboration, education and advocacy in closing the skills gap• Her evolution from “Plumber Paige” to “All Trades Paige”Paige shares her passion for the trades and her mission to empower the next generation — making this conversation just as relevant today as when it first aired. Learn more at https://alltradespaige.com/.We’ll be back soon with new episodes — thanks for your patience while we get caught up!------------------------------------------------------------📚 Stay ahead of the curve by engaging in continuous education and keeping up with the latest industry trends. The HVACR Educational Workforce is at the forefront of this transformation, and it's time to join the journey!Don't get left behind – watch this video, and let's navigate the future of HVACR together! 🌍💨Remember to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on all things HVACR. Your journey to becoming a tech-savvy HVACR expert starts here! 💪🔧#HVACR #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent #SkilledTrades #WomenInTrades #HVAC #Plumbing #TradesEducation #ESCO #ESCOInstitute #AllTradesPaigeThe ESCO Group and its affiliates develop standards, validation tools, and training resources for the HVACR and building science fields. Collectively, we have the resources to keep you, or the training you offer, current and relevant in the ever-changing HVACR industry. Our resources include:The HVACR Learning Network- https://hvacr.elearn.network/------------------------------------------------------------National HVACR Conference- https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx------------------------------------------------------------HVACR educator resources- https://www.escogroup.org/hern/------------------------------------------------------------HVACR credentials- https://www.escogroup.org/certifications/default.aspx------------------------------------------------------------Programmatic accreditation- https://www.escogroup.org/accreditation/default.aspx------------------------------------------------------------Digital and Printed curriculum- https://www.escogroup.org/shop/default.aspx------------------------------------------------------------Webcast- https://www.escogroup.org/webcast.aspx
S3 Ep 47Building a Life in the Trades: Apprenticeship & the Next Generation
In this engaging and relatable episode, we sit down with Brooke Lang and Eric Hiatt — two UA apprentices and co-hosts of Two Bolts Short of a Flange — to explore what it’s really like to build a life and career in the skilled trades.From finding their way into the industry to building a future together, Brooke and Eric share a unique perspective on apprenticeships, financial freedom and the realities of working in the field.We explore:• Why apprenticeships offer a powerful alternative to traditional college paths• The real financial advantages of earning while you learn — without student debt• How union training programs provide long-term stability, benefits and career mobility• The wide range of opportunities in the trades, from data centers to travel work• The importance of mentorship, representation and initiatives like the Sisterhood of TradesAlong the way, Brooke and Eric share personal stories, lessons learned and honest insights into what makes the trades both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Whether you're considering a career in the industry or looking to better understand its impact, this episode highlights why the trades are more than just a job — they’re a pathway to a secure and fulfilling future.Learn more about the Sisterhood of Trades and connect with the growing community supporting the next generation of skilled professionals: https://www.sisterhoodoftrades.com/.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇💨 Daikin Comfort – https://daikincomfort.com/ @DaikinComfort Delivering comfort, efficiency, and innovation through advanced HVAC technology.🧰 Service Logic – https://www.servicelogic.com/ @ServiceLogic-CommercialHVAC The nation’s largest privately held HVAC service company — keeping facilities efficient and reliable.🌎 Hudson Technologies – https://www.hudsontech.com/ @HudsonTechnologies Leading the charge in sustainable refrigerant management and recovery solutions.📚 iConnect Training – https://iconnecttraining.com/ @iconnecttraining Providing world-class hands-on HVACR education and training resources for future technicians.🔧 The United Association (UA) – https://ua.org/ @UAPipeTrades Building America’s skilled workforce through premier training for plumbers, fitters, welders, and HVACR professionals.👏 We’re grateful for their continued support in helping advance the HVACR industry through training, innovation, and opportunity!#HVAC #HVACR #HVACTechnician #HVACTraining #DaikinComfort #ServiceLogic #HudsonTechnologies #iConnectTraining #UnitedAssociation #HVACCommunity #TradeEducation #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship #UnionStrong #WorkforceDevelopment #ESCOInstitute
S3 Ep 46From Desk Job to Red Seal: HVAC Jess on Finding Her Calling in the Trades
What if the career you never considered is the one that changes your life?In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Banister — HVAC Jess — to talk about her journey from a decade in finance to becoming a Red Seal certified refrigeration mechanic and social media advocate for the skilled trades.Jess shares how a few ride-alongs with her dad’s HVAC business sparked a passion she never expected — and how fixing something broken gave her a sense of purpose no office job ever could.We discuss:• Why representation in the trades matters• Career changes in your 30s• The stability of skilled trades in uncertain times• Why her message is simple: “Consider it"This conversation is for students, parents, career changers and anyone wondering if there’s a more hands-on, fulfilling path out there.Follow HVAC Jess on YouTube and Instagram @hvacjess.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇💨 Daikin Comfort – https://daikincomfort.com/ @DaikinComfort Delivering comfort, efficiency, and innovation through advanced HVAC technology.🧰 Service Logic – https://www.servicelogic.com/ @ServiceLogic-CommercialHVAC The nation’s largest privately held HVAC service company — keeping facilities efficient and reliable.🌎 Hudson Technologies – https://www.hudsontech.com/ @HudsonTechnologies Leading the charge in sustainable refrigerant management and recovery solutions.📚 iConnect Training – https://iconnecttraining.com/ @iconnecttraining Providing world-class hands-on HVACR education and training resources for future technicians.🔧 The United Association (UA) – https://ua.org/ @UAPipeTrades Building America’s skilled workforce through premier training for plumbers, fitters, welders, and HVACR professionals.👏 We’re grateful for their continued support in helping advance the HVACR industry through training, innovation, and opportunity!#HVAC #HVACR #HVACTechnician #HVACTraining #DaikinComfort #ServiceLogic #HudsonTechnologies #iConnectTraining #UnitedAssociation #HVACCommunity #TradeEducation #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent
S3 Ep 45The Negawatt Is Cheaper Than the Megawatt: Electrification & Infrastructure
Electrification is accelerating across the country — from heat pumps and high-efficiency HVAC to EV fleets and solar microgrids. But one critical question remains: Is our infrastructure ready?In this forward-thinking episode, we sit down with Jordan Lerner, Vice President of the West Region at Schneider Electric, to unpack the realities behind electrification, grid capacity and what true energy resiliency looks like in practice.We discuss:• Why “the negawatt is cheaper than the megawatt” — and what that means for HVAC professionals• How electrifying buildings and fleets impacts switchgear, service entrances and utility coordination• Creative funding strategies, including on-bill financing and public-sector grants• The growing role of solar, battery storage and microgrids in building resiliency• Why automation, recommissioning and simply “turning things off” can unlock massive grid capacity• How education and long-term maintenance planning are essential to successful energy transitionsFrom California’s aggressive heat pump goals to Colorado’s evolving energy mix, this conversation bridges the gap between HVAC innovation and electrical infrastructure realities. It’s not just about sustainability — it’s about resiliency, feasibility and smart energy management.For more information on Schneider Electric, visit https://www.se.com/.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇💨 Daikin Comfort – https://daikincomfort.com/ @DaikinComfort Delivering comfort, efficiency, and innovation through advanced HVAC technology.🏫 Lincoln Tech – https://www.lincolntech.edu/ @LincolnTech Training the next generation of skilled HVACR professionals through hands-on career education.🧰 NAVAC – https://navacglobal.com/ @NAVAC Revolutionizing the HVACR service industry with smart, efficient, and reliable tools for technicians.⚙️ Amatrol – https://amatrol.com/ @Amatrol Providing world-class technical training systems that empower students and instructors in the skilled trades.🌎 A-Gas – https://www.agas.com/ @a-gas8684 Leading the way in sustainable refrigerant lifecycle management and environmental responsibility.👏 Thank you to all our sponsors for supporting education, innovation, and growth in the HVACR industry!#HVAC #HVACR #HVACTechnician #HVACTraining #LincolnTech #NAVAC #Amatrol #AGas #HVACCommunity #TradeEducation #HVACInnovation #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent
S3 Ep 44Bridging the Digital and Mechanical: Smart Buildings and HVAC Innovation
In this engaging episode recorded live at the 2026 AHR Expo, J.J. Plotz and James Burke delve into the rapidly evolving world of HVAC and building automation. Together, we explore how the intersection of digital technology and mechanical systems is reshaping the industry and creating exciting opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals.We discuss:• The transformative role of advanced controls and automation in HVAC systems• How digital natives are uniquely positioned to thrive in this evolving field• The growing demand for hybrid technicians skilled in both mechanical and digital systems• The potential of AI and data-driven insights to optimize building performance and sustainability• The importance of fostering technical skills through programs like VR and robotics for younger generationsClifton, J.J. and James share their passion for the industry, highlighting the critical impact of HVAC and building automation on everything from schools and hospitals to data centers and skyscrapers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of smart buildings and the rewarding careers within this dynamic field.Learn more at johnsoncontrols.com. #SkilledTrades #AI #ESCO #ESCOInstitute----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇💨 Daikin Comfort – https://daikincomfort.com/ @DaikinComfort Delivering comfort, efficiency, and innovation through advanced HVAC technology.🧰 Service Logic – https://www.servicelogic.com/ @ServiceLogic-CommercialHVAC The nation’s largest privately held HVAC service company — keeping facilities efficient and reliable.🌎 Hudson Technologies – https://www.hudsontech.com/ @HudsonTechnologies Leading the charge in sustainable refrigerant management and recovery solutions.📚 iConnect Training – https://iconnecttraining.com/ @iconnecttraining Providing world-class hands-on HVACR education and training resources for future technicians.🔧 The United Association (UA) – https://ua.org/ @UAPipeTrades Building America’s skilled workforce through premier training for plumbers, fitters, welders, and HVACR professionals.👏 We’re grateful for their continued support in helping advance the HVACR industry through training, innovation, and opportunity!#HVAC #HVACR #HVACTechnician #HVACTraining #DaikinComfort #ServiceLogic #HudsonTechnologies #iConnectTraining #UnitedAssociation #HVACCommunity #TradeEducation #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent
S3 Ep 43Surging HVAC Demand: The Future of Data Centers and Thermal Management
In this thought-provoking episode filmed live at AHR Expo, Rob Tanner and Clifton Beck explore the transformative landscape the HVAC industry, with a special focus on the growing demands of data centers. This conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities of these unprecedented industry shifts. We discuss:• The critical role of HVAC in managing the heat generated by data centers• The differences between wet cooling and dry cooling systems and their applications• How manufacturers are innovating to meet the demand for scalable, efficient solutions• The rising need for skilled technicians and the lucrative opportunities in the field• The potential for repurposing heat energy and its implications for sustainabilityRob and Clifton share valuable insights into the evolving landscape of HVAC, including info for contractors, technicians and industry leaders navigating this exciting era of innovation. Whether you're curious about the future of HVAC or looking to understand the career outlook for the skilled trades, this episode is packed with actionable knowledge.Learn more at johnsoncontrols.com and york.com. 🔥------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇🏫 Lincoln Tech – https://www.lincolntech.edu/ @LincolnTech Training the next generation of skilled HVACR professionals through hands-on career education.🧰 NAVAC – https://navacglobal.com/ @NAVAC Revolutionizing the HVACR service industry with smart, efficient, and reliable tools for technicians.⚙️ Amatrol – https://amatrol.com/ @Amatrol Providing world-class technical training systems that empower students and instructors in the skilled trades.🌎 A-Gas – https://www.agas.com/ @a-gas8684 Leading the way in sustainable refrigerant lifecycle management and environmental responsibility.👏 Thank you to all our sponsors for supporting education, innovation, and growth in the HVACR industry!#HVAC #HVACR #HVACTechnician #HVACTraining #LincolnTech #NAVAC #Amatrol #AGas #HVACCommunity #TradeEducation #HVACInnovation #Refrigeration #Technology #FutureOfHVACR #EcoFriendly #ContinuousEducation #StayCurrent #DataCenters #SkilledTrades #ESCO #ESCOInstitute