Like you, my life has shifted in many ways during these unprecedented times.
The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected you, your family, your community, and your business. And I hope you know that ACCA –your staff and fellow contractors –are here to support you. ACCA continues to update you on areas of relief, advocacy, legislation, and tools to help you communicate with your customers during these trying times.
I have been spending a lot time on the phone with ACCA members across the country. And through all of this, I hear the challenges that you are going through. From cash flow after a mild winter, implementing paid sick leave requirements, to ensuring your technicians feel safe, I want you to know that your ACCA staff continue to work to help you navigate all of these challenges. We know this transition has not been easy, but with the support of our entire HVACR community, we will get through this…stronger and together.
I am constantly reminding myself that the only thing in my control is my mindset. While we are all facing this challenging time, let’s focus on the things in our control, and channel our energy into positivity and productivity.
We know that it’s not always easy for contractors to communicate with customers during times like these, so ACCA has made it easier for you with our social media toolbox. ACCA members have access to updated social media tools that contractors can share directly on their social media channels. And, to communicate with your customers about safety protocols, implemented by in your company, we have posts that specifically speak to customers about coronavirus, and members have already downloaded thousands of images.
I’ve spoken to numerous contractors who are also using this time to integrate more employee training on the days when there is nothing on the schedule, and I strongly encourage you to use this time by taking advantage of all of ACCA’s amazing education resources and trainings. ACCA offers sales, entry level bootcamp, basic electricity, air flow, quality installation, home performance, and many other education programs. Additionally, we have current and archived educational webinars that members can access at any time. For contractors who are able to take advantage of SBA loans and retain their employees, these educational programs will help keep your teams engaged and learning.
ACCA always has your back, and we believe that the strength of the ACCA community has always been, and will always be, because of its people. ACCA members came together across the country and sent 21,000 letters to their state officials through ACCA’s Action-Alert, helping to ensure HVACR contractors were considered essential.
We are all in this together. One way or another, we will persevere. If there is anything you need from ACCA, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you and your family good health, safety and prosperity going forward.
Sidebar 1) HVAC Technician Training for Quality Performance
Contractors often say they are looking for convenient and affordable ways to improve technician performance, reduce callbacks, increase job margins, and reward quality employees. That’s why ACCA developed Qtech, an online HVAC training program that can help meet those needs.
Qtech is made up of individual online courses built around ACCA standards. Courses vary in total hours, but all are broken up into very short 5 to 15-minute segments. Qtech courses allow the user to learn at their own pace, on their own time -from any desktop computer. Upon successfully passing the exam, a certificate of completion is issued, and a variety of continuing credits are available through BPI, NATE, RESNET, RSES, and HVAC Excellence (Check each course for specific CEU/CEH hours). Visit acca.org/certification/qtech for more information.
Sidebar 2) HVAC Training for Technicians: EPA 608 Certification Test Prep
The ACCA EPA 608 Certification Test Prep Course is a self-paced program that will help in your efforts to become certified under the refrigerant recovery and recycling program of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
This unique resource is designed for technicians who already have a working knowledge of the trade and wish to become EPA 608 certified.
EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F) under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act require that technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release ozone-depleting refrigerants into the atmosphere be certified.Email info@acca.org for more information.
Side bar 3) HVAC for Office & Sales Staff
HVAC for Office & Sales Staff is a self-paced,online program that explains the basics of HVAC equipment, how important the HVAC contracting industry is, and how vital the role of each employee is in running a successful contracting company.
This unique resource is ideal for HVAC business employees such as dispatchers, salespeople, customer service, and any other office staff who would like to know more about how central heating and cooling systems work.Visit acca.org/certification/hvacofficestaff for more information.
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