A growing concern: the skills shortage in our crucial industry

A growing concern: the skills shortage in our crucial industry

The HVAC&R sector plays a crucial role, but its positive impact is only possible when there are skilled technicians to install and service systems

It’s an often forgotten part of homes, businesses and all buildings in communities. Quiet achievers in the world of architecture, HVAC&R systems help shape our indoor environments to be healthy and comfortable – whether it be in residential, commercial or industrial spaces.

However, the benefits HVAC&R provides are only possible thanks to the knowledgeable technicians that install and service the systems, of which there is a growing shortage.

The HVAC&R workforce shortage

The skilled labour shortage in the HVAC&R sector isn’t good news for anyone. Without the HVAC&R industry –and the technicians to install and service them – our food would perish, customs would shut down, our wellbeing would decline, and a whole host of negative impacts.

Why is there a skills shortage?

An increasing population means the need for more homes, more residential apartments and an increase in commercial complexes.

This brings a demand for more skilled HVAC&R professionals.

However, it’s not just this growing need for HVAC&R systems that is causing a shortage of workers. Similar to many industries, the talent shortage in New Zealand’s HVAC&R sector is much the result of an aging workforce. With a wave of experienced technicians leaving the industry for retirement, a gap is being created. However, the workers needed to step up to replace the seasoned professionals who are finishing their careers don’t always have the same knowledge that has been gained over years of experience.

How can this be fixed?

• Making training accessible, from school-based learning to vocational education and online learning

• Share career pathways to encourage more people to join the HVAC&R sector

• Sharing positive experiences of working in the industry to encourage a new generation

• Staying on top of new technology and innovations

• Joining forces as an industry to share knowledge