Ep 211 Jane and Mandi - Learning About Women in HVAC

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Mandi Ehman from Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air and Jane Sidebottom, President of Women in HVACR, to discuss leadership, mentorship, and the future of workforce development in the skilled trades. The conversation explores how businesses can attract, develop, and retain talented professionals by creating supportive cultures, investing in training, and encouraging career growth. Jane shares how Women in HVACR provides education, networking, scholarships, and professional development opportunities that strengthen both individuals and the industry as a whole. Mandi discusses the importance of customer service, team collaboration, and leadership within a growing home services company, while both guests emphasize that successful organizations thrive when they invest in people first. Topics Discussed Leadership in the skilled trades Building strong workplace cultures Mentorship and professional development Recruiting the next generation of trades professionals Expanding opportunities throughout the HVACR industry Workforce development and employee retention Customer service and team excellence The future of women in the skilled trades Resources & Mentions Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air https://www.cardinalplumbingva.com/ Women in HVACR https://www.womeninhvacr.org/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com Takeaways Women in HVACR organization supports women in the HVAC industry Mentorship and career path programs are essential for attracting and retaining talent in the trades Technology and AI are transforming the trades industry, making learning and skill development faster and more efficient. Diversity, community, and mentorship play a crucial role in business growth and success in the trades industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recording in San Diego 01:13 Mandy's Introduction and Company Overview 02:25 Jane's Introduction and Women in HVACR 03:59 Impact of Women in HVACR 05:57 Challenges and Culture in the Trades 07:09 Training and Career Path at Cardinal 09:12 Challenges for Women in the Trades 10:11 Promoting Trades to Women 12:47 Interest in Trades and Mentorship 15:31 Uptick in Interest and Influencers 18:41 Changing Perceptions of College and Trades 19:08 Career Path and Culture at Cardinal 22:22 Impact of AI in the HVAC Industry 45:32 Building a Better Team and Business Growth