#United States #HVAC #Fresno #UEI College

HVAC Career Fair at UEI College

As the summer heat in Fresno reaches scorching heights, the need for effective air conditioning becomes paramount, underscoring the crucial role of skilled HVAC technicians. Recognizing this demand, UEI College in Fresno organized a vibrant HVAC Career Fair, bringing together students, graduates, and local employers eager to recruit the next generation of technicians.

On a warm day in March, nearly a dozen HVAC companies gathered at UEI College, ready to interview attendees on the spot. This event wasn't just an excellent chance for students to connect with potential employers but also served as a unique platform for businesses to find fresh talent amid a growing industry. Louie Lopez, Chair of the Skilled Trades Programs at UEI College, emphasized the importance of these fairs, stating, "We host these events to provide our students with opportunities to succeed. The HVAC industry consistently needs trained professionals, and we help link our graduates with companies actively seeking to hire."

Employers at the fair echoed this sentiment. Lance Adams, General Manager of Allbritten, a local HVAC, electrical, and plumbing company, highlighted their pressing need for technicians: "With summer approaching, I have several HVAC positions open today. UEI College has a fantastic reputation. One of our top employees is an alumnus who now teaches here, and we currently employ two graduates from UEI, and they have been exceptional."

Similar experiences were shared by other employers. Edna Pearson from The Alvarado Group mentioned, "We've hired multiple UEI graduates, and three are currently part of our team. Our HVAC manager is also a UEI alumnus, and he's doing a fantastic job." Brad Melton, President of JC Melton Air Conditioning, reflected on his lengthy career in HVAC, noting, "I've worked in this field for nearly 40 years, and it provides immense satisfaction. It's an ideal career for those who enjoy hands-on work, and especially in Fresno's hot summers, the need is ever-present. I have seen great success hiring UEI graduates—they arrive with a solid foundation. I've already received a pile of applications and completed several interviews. The real challenge now is choosing the right candidates."

Angel Hernandez, founder of Costless Heating, Plumbing, and Air Conditioning, also acknowledged the quality of UEI graduates: "I've employed numerous UEI alumni because they come equipped with the essential knowledge we need, enabling us to train them effectively within our operations."

One of those successful graduates, Diego Tapetillo, who completed the HVAC program at UEI in 2023, attended the fair to recruit new talent for his current employer, Costless. "UEI was the ideal launchpad for my career. The hands-on learning experience I received from instructors was invaluable, and I owe my entry into HVAC to them," he said.

For recent graduates like Mason Cornelius, the career fair represented a vital opportunity to connect directly with potential employers. "At UEI, I received hands-on training from my instructors. This fair allows me to approach companies I am genuinely interested in. It’s remarkable that UEI facilitates such events," he remarked.

Since its HVAC program inception over a decade ago, UEI College has graduated more than 800 students, many of whom are now thriving in the HVAC industry. The HVAC Career Fair is just one of the many initiatives the college undertakes to support students beyond the classroom, offering valuable resources such as career placement assistance, resume-building guidance, and interview coaching to ensure graduates successfully secure employment in this high-demand field.