In this episode of HVAC Know It All, host Gary McCreadie speaks with HVACR Educator Don Gillis of Gillis Coach about how HVAC training has changed from the field-based approaches of decades past. They examine apprenticeship experiences, knowledge gaps, digital learning tools, and how senior technicians can build confidence by involving apprentices in real troubleshooting.
Drawing on more than 30 years in HVAC, including roles with Emerson, Chemours, and as a service manager, Don shares how he developed his training approach. His experience teaching refrigerants, building science, weatherization, and technicians in the field informs his focus on practical learning, curiosity, and helping people advance in their careers.
Key Takeaways
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How involving apprentices in setup and troubleshooting can build confidence instead of treating them only as helpers.
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Why a senior technician should ask an apprentice for input when a diagnostic process stalls.
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The value of teaching a repeatable troubleshooting methodology so apprentices can identify missed steps.
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How digital resources can help apprentices find answers when the technician beside them does not know the answer.
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Why withholding knowledge can weaken training and limit a team's ability to solve problems.
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The importance of creating a respectful truck environment where apprentices can learn without unnecessary frustration.
Key Timestamps
[00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters
[00:43] – Gary introduces Don Gillis and the discussion on HVAC training
[02:31] – Don's path from Emerson and Chemours to coaching and curriculum development
[07:10] – How committing to an independent business changes fear into planning and excitement
[08:42] – Don's early field training experience and the value of learning alongside apprentices
[12:42] – How past training environments could be toxic or unsupported
[15:13] – Brand-focused training, broken school equipment, and learning from manuals
[20:41] – Using an apprentice's perspective to catch missed troubleshooting steps
This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:
Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall
Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/
Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/
SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm
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Company Website: https://gilliscoach.com/
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