From factory work in the Appalachian Mountains to Regional Supervisor in just five years… this is the kind of story the trades need right now 🔥

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Clay Hartzog to break down his journey from zero experience to leading operations across Virginia and North Carolina for Archway Service Group. No shortcuts, no fluff… just real-world growth in the foodservice equipment repair and HVAC/R industry.

Clay shares what it actually takes to break into the trades with no background, how he accelerated his career faster than most, and the mindset shift required to move from technician to leadership. This is a raw, honest conversation about opportunity, work ethic, and what separates average techs from the ones who rise.

If you’re a technician looking to level up, someone thinking about getting into the skilled trades, or a leader trying to develop the next generation, this episode delivers real insight you can apply immediately.

In this episode, we cover:
• How to start a career in HVAC/R or foodservice equipment repair with no experience
• The habits and mindset that drive rapid career growth in the trades
• Transitioning from technician to supervisor and leading teams effectively
• Common mistakes young techs make and how to avoid them
• Why the skilled trades offer massive opportunity right now

🐍 This episode is brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration Technologies
Trusted by technicians in the field, Viper products like Big Blu leak detector and their full line of coil cleaners are built to perform when it matters. If you’re serious about doing the job right, this is gear you want on your truck.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

👇 Don’t just listen… take action 👇
Subscribe to Commercial Kitchen Chronicles on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts
Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway from this episode
Share this with someone who needs to hear that opportunity in the trades is real

The trades aren’t dying… they’re wide open for the ones willing to step in and take it. 🔧🔥

Reach out to Clay Hartzog

https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-hartzog-9920771a3/

Stay up to date with the crew of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

#HVACR #FoodserviceRepair #SkilledTrades #TechnicianLife #CommercialKitchen #HVACTech #BlueCollarCareers #TradeLife #CareerGrowth #Podcast