Why HVAC Technician Jobs Won’t Be Replaced by AI

Looking for a secure career that won’t be obsolete in a few years when AI takes over? Consider becoming an HVAC repair technician. It’s an interesting, well-paid career for tech-minded men and women. And HVAC technician jobs can’t be done by AI or even robots. 

3 reasons we need humans for HVAC technician jobs 

1. Humans beat AI algorithms at technical repairs 

In the HVAC and Refrigeration industry, technicians must install, maintain, and repair complex equipment. The fact is, algorithms can’t match humans when it comes to diagnostics and repairs that require hands-on expertise along with technical knowledge. Human brains are better at getting at the underlying causes of equipment problems, using creativity to arrive at the right solution, and making decisions based on experience and the situation at hand.

2. Robots can’t replace technicians, either

HVAC systems are installed in just about every building. Humans are needed to travel to those buildings to install, repair and service installed equipment. There’s no robot that can climb up on the roof or inside a crawl space to work on heating and cooling equipment.

That said, there are tools being developed that make the job quicker and easier for humans to do, such as robotic cameras that can inspect the condition of ductwork. 

3. Humans will be in demand for HVAC technician jobs for the foreseeable future

AI and robots can’t do the job, and the human HVACR workforce is shrinking fast as technicians in the Baby Boomer generation are retiring. Unfortunately, because schools and many parents are pushing young people toward college, fewer are considering rewarding and lucrative careers in trades like HVAC & Refrigeration.

That’s why there’s a growing demand for technicians and more HVAC technician jobs available every year. Right now, there is a shortage of about 70,000 jobs in HVACR. That shortage will grow to 115,000 jobs in the next few years. 

Men and women with the right skills and qualities can build a rewarding and secure career with great pay. 

Learn more about HVAC technician jobs: is it the career for you?

Here’s some reading that can help you learn more about HVAC careers:

• Alternatives to College: High Paying and Rewarding Careers in HVACR
• What Do HVAC Technicians Do?
• HVAC & Refrigeration Technician Salary in NYC

Sound interesting? Take our quiz to find out if you’re a good match for HVAC technician jobs.

HVACR Career Connect NY was created to promote the exceptional quality-of-life benefits of a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service, and also to provide a clear path for getting started in the profession. In doing so, we serve as a resource for employers in the New York City metro area to find and hire smart and capable new technicians. We also serve as an educational resource to support business growth and to help service technicians succeed in their chosen profession.