Georgia Mountain Beacon

Blairsville, GA – North Georgia Technical College graduate Brad Gooch is climbing the HVAC career ladder and he’s happy to share his experiences to help motivate current and future students in the Commercial Air Conditioning Technology program.

“NGTC has an outstanding program because of the knowledgeable instructors, hands-on experience and the variety of equipment available for students,” he said.  “The way technology is changing in the industry, it is crucial to bring trained employees into the job market.”

After more than five years working on the service side of the business for Lawson Air Conditioning and Plumbing, Inc., in Gainesville, Mr. Gooch was recently promoted to a management position in sales and marketing.

“In this industry, you never stop learning,” he said.  “There are a lot of good technicians out there, but the great technicians are the ones who stay on top of the changes to equipment and techniques.”

With changes such as new motors, increasing energy demands, dehumidifiers, wireless thermostats controlled by cell phones and computers, and duct to ductless, it’s critical for today’s technicians to be well trained and to stay informed.

Brad went on to describe how companies can donate used equipment or malfunctioning units to the college for diagnostic exercises.  “Students can learn a lot about trouble-shooting and problem solving, and that will be key when they get into the workplace.”

Lawson Air Conditioning and Plumbing, Inc., of Gainesville is a 66 year old company of 50 employees that provides both residential and commercial HVAC and plumbing services.

Born and raised in Dahlonega, Brad now lives in Gainesville.  His mother, Angie Gooch, and father and stepmother, Donna and Tommy Gooch still live in Lumpkin County.

For more on programs of study at North Georgia Technical College, contact 706-754-7700 or visit www.northgatech.edu.

Photo: Brad Gooch was a special guest to the NGTC HVAC class.

Tags: North GA Technical College