# Future-Proofing the Trades: Bridging Plumbing and HVAC, and the Power of Local Unions

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/did-you-know-the-esco-hvac-podcast-5997887/future-proofing-the-trades-bridging-plumbing-and-hvac-and-the-power-of-local-unions
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/did-you-know-the-esco-hvac-podcast-5997887/future-proofing-the-trades-bridging-plumbing-and-hvac-and-the-power-of-local-unions.md
Podcast: [Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/did-you-know-the-esco-hvac-podcast-5997887)
Published: 2026-06-12T15:15:19+00:00
Episode link: https://rss.com/podcasts/escogroup/2910478
Audio file: https://content.rss.com/episodes/184912/2910478/escogroup/2026_06_12_15_13_40_824178f5-21c2-4eb3-8166-be6069fe5fae.mp3
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Duration seconds: 942

## Resource

Big changes are coming to the plumbing and HVAC trades — and the people who train for them now will lead tomorrow. In this energetic episode, we chat with Marty Kuerzi and David McConnell from UA Local 502 about how two industries are converging and what that means for the next generation of skilled workers. We explore: • How plumbing and HVAC trades are blending as new technologies hit the market • The coming shift to heat pump water heaters and air-to-water monobloc systems • Why apprenticeships, certifications and cross-trade training matter more than ever • The role of unions and UA Local 502 in preparing workers for industry change • Why contractors who invest in education will thrive while others fall behind Marty, David and Clifton share an honest, ground-level look at the skills, mindset and teamwork it takes to adapt. They talk about embracing change instead of fearing it, leaning on younger talent with new tech skills, and refusing to "pull up the ladder" on the next generation. If you're a contractor, apprentice, educator or industry leader, this conversation offers practical insight for you on where the trades are heading. Learn more about UA Local 502 and the work they're doing to train the next wave of skilled professionals at lu502.com . #HVAC #Plumbing #SkilledTrades #ESCO #ESCOInstitute #UALocal502 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎥 This Week’s Video is Brought to You By Our Amazing Sponsors! A huge THANK YOU to this week’s sponsors for supporting education and excellence in the HVACR industry! 👇 💨 Daikin Comfort – https://daikincomfort.com/ @DaikinComfort Delivering comfort, efficiency, and innovation through advanced HVAC technology. 🧰 Service Logic – https://www.servicelogic.com…

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## Transcript

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