In this episode of Going With the Flow, host Lucas Cellino sits down with Garrett, one of Cellino’s rising HVAC service technicians who pivoted from a business degree into the trades. Garrett explains how, after college, he realized a traditional office job wasn’t the right fit and found his path through Cellino’s apprentice program. He opens up about walking away from another opportunity to return to Cellino, and why hands-on problem solving is so rewarding.

Lucas and Garrett talk about the transition from college to the trades, the misconceptions surrounding HVAC careers, and how Garrett’s business background helps him better understand both customers and company goals. Garrett reflects on his quick progression. From apprentice to maintenance tech to service technician, what it felt like to run his first solo calls, and the pressures and learning curves that come with being on-call during Buffalo’s intense heating season.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

  • Why Garrett chose HVAC over a traditional business career in Buffalo
  • How apprenticeships create opportunities for rapid career growth
  • The realities and rewards of working as a service technician in Western New York
  • Why problem solving and customer care make HVAC work fulfilling
  • How a business background can improve customer communication in the trades
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Our Services

Other Podcast Episodes

Hear more apprentice-to-service tech journeys at Cellino.

Blog Articles

Learn about starting a career in HVAC and the trades.
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Turning Passion Into a Career in Buffalo

If this episode inspires you, remember Cellino is here to support Buffalo homeowners while growing the next generation of skilled technicians.

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Frequently Asked Questions

After completing his business degree, Garrett realized he wanted a hands-on career and joined Cellino’s apprentice program.

Apprentices receive on-the-job training, learn from experienced technicians, and quickly advance through maintenance and service roles.

Trades offer hands-on problem solving, customer interaction, and clear advancement opportunities.

Technicians face pressure to solve problems quickly during emergencies, especially in Buffalo’s winter heating season.

Apply to apprenticeship programs like Cellino’s to gain training, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

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