Celebrating Our Partnership with Trade Warriors: Honoring Veterans with Meaningful Careers in HVAC

As we approach Veterans Day, Brady is proud to share our partnership with Trade Warriors, a program dedicated to helping veterans and active-duty service members transition into fulfilling HVAC careers. This collaboration not only strengthens our workforce but also reinforces our commitment to supporting those who have served our country.

Image of a technician monitoring building equipment with connected technology.

About Trade Warriors

Trade Warriors was established to address two key challenges: a shortage of skilled HVAC technicians and the unique career hurdles faced by veterans seeking meaningful employment post-service. Responding to feedback from Trane dealers struggling to find qualified technicians, Trade Warriors bridges this gap by offering an intensive, 8-week training program. With over 300 hours of hands-on HVAC instruction, Trade Warriors equips active-duty service members (within six months of separating) and current veterans with the skills to succeed as HVAC service technicians or installers at Trane dealerships. The program operates at Fort Liberty (NC) and Fort Cavazos (TX), creating direct pathways for veterans into stable, skilled roles in HVAC.

Brady’s Commitment to Veterans

At Brady, we’re deeply committed to hiring veterans—a commitment rooted in our history as a veteran-founded company. This legacy shapes our culture, driving us to actively seek ways to support veterans in their transition to civilian life. Through our partnership with Trade Warriors, we’re able to connect with skilled veterans ready to contribute to our team and succeed in HVAC.

In seeking qualified technicians, I work closely with community colleges and previously, we hired service members who received HVAC training during their service. But as fewer service members were coming to us with this training, I was introduced to Trade Warriors, which impressed our team right from the start.

Missy Akin

Director of Workforce Development and Partnerships, Brady

I’ve always enjoyed fixing things, so I chose the Trade Warriors program because I knew that working in HVAC would allow me to use my hands and tackle new challenges every day. The program offered a great hands-on experience, and getting connected with Brady has been incredibly rewarding. Being out in the field and putting my training to work has been a fantastic journey. I look forward to staying with Brady for the long haul and continuing to grow and thrive here.

Bobby Davis

Service Technician, Brady

Success Stories: Welcoming Trade Warriors Graduates

In January 2024, we welcomed our first Trade Warriors graduate, Bobby Davis, to the Brady team. Originally from Greensboro, Bobby trained at Fort Cavazos in Texas before joining our Greensboro service team. Reflecting on Bobby’s journey, Mike Shelton, our Regional Development and Support Field Supervisor, shares, “At first, I was skeptical about Bobby’s ability to handle large industrial applications with his limited experience. But within a week, I saw his quick progress and dedication. Bobby has a fantastic attitude, strong work ethic, and performs exceptionally well in tough situations. He’s a great team player and committed to learning. Bobby has truly been an asset to our team.”

This month, we’re excited to announce that Jesse Stills, a recent Trade Warriors graduate from Fort Liberty, has joined our Fayetteville service team. We look forward to seeing Jesse’s growth and contributions as he begins his journey with Brady.

Looking Forward

Our partnership with Trade Warriors continues to be a source of pride for Brady, as it allows us to honor veterans by providing them with meaningful career opportunities. As we celebrate Veterans Day, we’re reminded of the value veterans bring to our workforce and are grateful for the dedication they bring to their roles. Here’s to more success stories and a continued commitment to hiring those who’ve served.

Join Us in Supporting Veterans this Veterans Day