Being a woman in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) world means being in the minority – for now. But, as is evident by Anorvia James and the many women who have preceded her in the field, it is opening up to any woman who is genuinely interested in learning how electricity works, how to problem solve, and always being creative, curious, and willing to ask when meeting a challenge to learn something new.
Tell me about yourself.
I was raised by a single mother who was a lesbian; she worked hard as a certified nurse. I learned self-sufficiency from my mom. When I was in my early twenties, I joined the Marines for four years. I knew my Dad as well; he liked to work with his hands. I have two younger sisters, fifteen years younger than me, so I became a kind of role model for them.
How did you become interested in HVAC-R?
When I first bought a home, I learned how expensive HVAC-R was! Having been raised to take care of myself, I wanted to learn about it.
What did you like about it?
I loved learning about electricity. I really do believe in unseen forces and that type of stuff; I’m a pretty spiritual person too. So, I was curious. And then when I got into it, I felt it was kind of like a scavenger hunt sometimes; you were looking but not really sure what you were looking for. It was kind of like being a doctor for machines – you know, how a doctor, because they know the body, can figure out how to diagnose a problem. In HVAC, you learn about the systems like it’s a body – the electrical systems, the plumbing systems.
What was your favorite thing about school?
Asking as many questions and the teacher not getting mad about it. Being able to make a lot of mistakes and know it’s okay.
Was there anyone in your life that was an inspiration to you to take this direction in your career?
My Mom was my inspiration; she wanted me to be an RN. I took prerequisites for it, but now she’s okay with me not being a registered nurse. She knows I’m making money and she thinks that’s good.
Is there anyone else you would like to mention from SJVC for the support and guidance they gave you?
Yes, I’d like to mention my teacher Mr. Doyle for his patience, because I asked a lot of questions!
So, what would be your best advice for a woman reading this article on how to succeed in the SJVC HVAC-R program?
If they’re thinking about going into a predominantly male field like HVAC-R, just be excited; there is so much to explore – there is unlimited potential with what you can do in HVAC-R. Be excited, pay attention and ask questions. And create a group of people – mostly whoever are your friends – so you can help each other. It helps to be curious how the world works and creative at the same time. DON’T let the male-dominated field stop you or think it’s too hard. It’s fun! Just have a genuine curiosity about it.
“Anorvia was a leader for the HVAC-R classes. Her instructors were impressed by her quick learning, maturity, and poise. She also volunteered to be part of the Trades Open House demonstrations to explain the different systems, tools and skills to prospective students and their families. Anorvia exemplifies technical skills, perseverance, and professionalism. – Career Services”