The commercial HVAC industry is essential to the function of NYC’s buildings — from maintaining comfort in towering office spaces to managing ventilation in industrial facilities. Donnelly Mechanical has been a leader in the commercial HVAC industry in NYC’s five boroughs, known for its commitment to quality service and safety. However, as the industry faces challenges in attracting younger generations to blue-collar work, Donnelly is taking proactive steps to bridge this generational gap and recruit top talent from Gen Z.
This post will explore Donnelly Mechanical’s innovative strategies, partnerships, and dedication to training the next wave of HVAC professionals, helping pave the way for a stronger, more agile future in one of New York City’s most vital industries.
The Current State of HVAC Recruitment for Gen Z
The HVAC industry — like so many other trade industries — is grappling with a significant issue. Fewer young people, particularly those in Gen Z, are entering blue-collar jobs as college degrees and white-collar career paths take center stage. This generational shift has caused a decline in applications for jobs that are not only in high demand but critical to everyday life and commerce.
The misconception surrounding trades like HVAC — that they lack upward mobility or skill development — is likely to deter many young job seekers. Yet, the reality is quite the opposite. HVAC careers offer strong salaries, opportunities for skill specialization, and pathways for climbing the professional ladder.
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Donnelly’s Approach to Bridging the Gap with Gen Z
Understanding the need to connect with Gen Z, Donnelly Mechanical has adopted an intentional and practical approach to bridging the gap between young talent and career opportunities in the HVAC industry.
Our strategy centers around building relationships with trade schools and unions, which are critical environments for grooming the next generation of workers. Through these connections, Donnelly Mechanical not only attracts aspiring HVAC technicians from Gen Z, but also ensures they receive proper training to handle the challenges and intricacies of New York City’s commercial HVAC landscape.
Partnership with Educational Institutions
One of Donnelly’s most impactful programs involves its partnership with trade schools like The Refrigeration Institute and unions such as Local 638. These partnerships are much more than recruitment pipelines — they’re comprehensive ecosystems where Donnelly plays a role in education and skill-building.
At The Refrigeration Institute, students begin learning the fundamentals of HVAC systems while gaining exposure to the demands of daily commercial HVAC operations. Donnelly also places a strong emphasis on safety at Local 638. All apprentices receive hands-on training that goes beyond textbooks, allowing them to work on real-world systems in ways that rigorously prepare them for the field.
According to Steve Cuadra from Local 638, this training ensures apprentices are well-versed in the day-to-day challenges of HVAC work in NYC.
Training and Safety Protocols
Working in the commercial HVAC field is no small feat, especially in a demanding city like New York. Donnelly stands out by emphasizing safety and skill development from the moment apprentices come on board.
Cuadra highlights mandatory requirements for working in NYC’s five boroughs. Technicians must earn a Site Safety Training (SST) card, which involves more than just basic education. It requires an OSHA training of 30 hours and an additional 10 hours of specialized courses in fall prevention and drug/alcohol awareness, totaling a rigorous 40 hours of preparation before setting foot on job sites.
Beyond certifications, technicians learn to manage the physical demands typical of NYC HVAC operations — from working at towering heights to facing extreme temperatures in boiler rooms. They also undergo pre-employment drug tests, ensuring high standards are met for team safety and performance.
This commitment to safety doesn’t only meet technical requirements; it instills responsibility in apprentices as they transition into full-fledged, skilled technicians.
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Build Your Future with Donnelly Mechanical
While the challenges of recruiting Gen Z into HVAC are real, Donnelly Mechanical has shown that with the right partnerships, training programs, and dedication to mentoring, it’s possible to bridge the gap.
For young professionals in Gen Z hungry for growth, stability, and meaningful work, HVAC offers lucrative opportunities — and Donnelly Mechanical is the perfect place to begin.
If you’re looking to get started in the HVAC industry, please visit Donnelly Mechanical’s website and contact us today — explore opportunities and take the first step toward a high-impact career in New York City’s commercial HVAC industry!
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