Dave Borowski has spent 20+ years in HVAC — from trade school to running a multimillion-dollar operation to consulting for companies across the industry. In this episode, he breaks down what separates thriving HVAC businesses from struggling ones, why most technicians are leaving money on the table, and how private equity is quietly reshaping the trades landscape for better and worse.

From duct design and airflow to recurring revenue models and AI diagnostics, Dave covers the technical and business sides of HVAC with equal depth. Whether you're a tech looking to level up or an owner trying to build a sustainable company, this conversation is packed with actionable insight.

In This Episode:

• Dave's journey from trade school to multimillion-dollar business owner to consultant
• Why installation quality matters more than equipment brand — and what customers get wrong about SEER ratings
• Duct design, airflow, and IAQ as the real drivers of system performance and longevity
• How to build recurring revenue through maintenance contracts and subscription models
• Private equity in HVAC — opportunities, pitfalls, and the difference between responsible investment and strip mining
• Training techs in diagnostics, communication, and long-term customer relationships
• Fieldpiece Bluetooth diagnostics, airflow measurement, and where AI actually fits in the future of HVAC
• The blue-collar labor shortage and what actually attracts young talent to the trades
• IAQ improvements: duct sizing, filtration media, and sterilization methods that work

Chapters:

00:00 — Introduction and Dave's HVAC journey 02:15 — A 20-year professional partnership in troubleshooting 04:10 — Business support and technical expertise in growth 07:20 — Lessons from owning a multimillion-dollar HVAC business 12:00 — Managing work-life balance and single parenting 16:50 — Training: diagnostic skills and communication 21:24 — Private equity's effect on HVAC companies 26:10 — Duct sizing, airflow, and how installation impacts longevity 33:24 — Myths about HVAC brands and customer misconceptions 37:36 — The pitfalls of Nest thermostats and AI in diagnostics 44:39 — Why ductwork and airflow determine system efficiency 50:04 — Residential vs. commercial technician opportunities 55:53 — How AI assists but doesn't replace core technical knowledge 62:33 — Private equity: responsible investment vs. strip mining 66:11 — Passion for the trade and mentoring new techs 71:19 — Building recurring revenue through maintenance contracts 78:33 — Filter management systems and IAQ innovations 79:26 — Dave's consulting and coaching work today 80:29 — Future outlook: automation, the industry, and attracting youth

Connect with Dave Borowski:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-borowski-vp-director-gm-class-a-contractor-814b348/

Connect With Us:

• Hiring top trade talent: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com
• Find your next opportunity: https://bcrecruits.com

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