— Springfield Public Schools is launching a pilot program to provide paid, hands-on training in HVAC and electrical systems for two high school students, addressing workforce needs while students complete their diplomas, as reported by

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The initiative is part of Missouri’s Registered Youth Apprenticeship Program and allows participants to earn wages, college credit, and nationally recognized U.S. Department of Labor credentials.

District leaders said the program helps build an internal pipeline for HVAC talent while establishing compliance and best practices before a broader expansion.

Workforce development programs such as paid youth apprenticeships are critical to the HVACR industry as contractors face persistent labor shortages and an aging workforce. By introducing students to HVAC careers earlier and compensating them while they learn, these programs create a reliable talent pipeline and reduce long-term recruiting and training costs for contractors. They also help ensure new technicians enter the field with hands-on experience, safety awareness, and industry-recognized credentials, improving job readiness and retention.

For HVACR contractors, investing in structured workforce development supports business continuity, service quality, and the ability to meet growing demand tied to system upgrades, energy efficiency initiatives, and evolving regulatory requirements.