These Students Are Building Brighter Futures with HVAC Programs

The skilled trades offer foster youth a path to independence, and these four students are proving what’s possible with grit, vision, and the right support. Each one is currently enrolled in HVAC programs across the country, supported by the American Industries Scholarship and the BrandSource scholarship.

Tyler – Los Angeles Trade Tech

Tyler is determined to master multiple trades and become a licensed general contractor. “I really want to become knowledgeable in all the trades so I can build houses from the ground up,” he says. Inspired by Minecraft and a childhood around construction, Tyler’s passion is rooted in creativity and giving back, especially to youth aging out of care. The scholarship is helping him afford tools and transportation while he juggles school, side jobs, and planning for his own business.

Jeremiah – Lincoln Tech

Jeremiah sees HVAC as a way to create the future he once lacked. “I want to get to a place where I can adopt a child one day and give them what I didn’t have growing up,” he shares. Raised by his aunt after time in foster care, he’s now training in commercial systems. Despite injuries and setbacks, he’s committed to finishing his HVAC program, finding stable housing, and eventually starting a business built on support, second chances, and care.

Patrick – Spokane Community College

A serious accident changed Patrick’s life—and career path. “I’ve learned to just go for it… When you see a chance to better your life, you take it,” he explains. After initially pursuing veterinary medicine, Patrick returned to his passion for mechanics. Now in a two-year HVAC/R program, he’s focused on joining a commercial HVAC union. For Patrick, this isn’t just a career, it’s a second chance to build something steady, skilled, and meaningful.

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These students are more than their challenges. They’re future HVAC professionals, leaders, and change makers. With support from scholarships like the American Industries and BrandSource scholarships, they’re gaining the tools to build lasting careers and create the stable lives they once lacked.

By helping foster youth pursue skilled trades, we’re not only filling vital workforce gaps, we’re helping young people achieve independence, purpose, and pride.

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