Fifty years old might seem a little late in life to start a new career, but with two of his three sons still at home, David Dunlap had an example to set, financial needs to satisfy and a responsibility to himself to go to work every day excited to make something better than the way he found it. He was always interested in knowing how things worked, so his curiosity and problem-solving nature made SJVC’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) program on the Temecula campus a natural choice.
Why choose a career in HVAC-R?
My brother, who is a Navy engineer, suggested I get into HVAC-R because it would be consistent (year round heating and cooling). It was out of my normal field and would be a challenge. And no one had as little experience getting into this field as I had.
What was your employment background?
I sold kettle corn at weekend sports tournaments and had been a personal trainer for several years. Paychecks were an up-and-down roller coaster. I was going into this a little blind, but I was motivated by the fact that no matter where you live, you’re going to need heating and air conditioning.
Why choose SJVC for your HVAC-R education and training?
I looked into it online and SJVC was among the first to pop up. I checked out other sites, but SJVC invited me to come in and let them show me what they had to offer. A week later I was sitting down with an advisor.
How did that meeting go?
The Admissions Advisor sat me down and went through the (HVAC-R) program step-by-step: what is involved, how much money the program was going to be, financing. I also sat down with a student finance advisor to see what kind of assistance I might qualify for and look at affordable payments that wouldn’t break my budget. Then, we did a walk-through (classroom/instructor visit).
I decided that day. This is what I wanted to do.
Did that first classroom visit meet your expectations?
I liked the fact that the students were all in uniform and looked engaged, very involved, in learning – a lot of hands-on training. They’re not told to just read a book, they’re very interactive with equipment. That did a lot for me.
What locked it in for you?
Financially I could afford it, the location was good, and it felt like an environment I could learn in. It didn’t feel like I was just another body, and they talked to me like they’d known me for a year. Evening classes, four days a week fit my heavy work schedule.
Biggest surprise about the HVAC-R program?
I was a little nervous because in high school I’d struggled to keep up in class. But Mr. G (instructor) was patient and would go over things again, if I asked. Everyone was helping each other. I didn’t know any of these kids, but I probably wouldn’t have completed the course as well as I did without classmates helping each other. I built great friendships along the way.
What was your greatest struggle?
Time management. It was difficult juggling two jobs and school; it was a challenge. And relearning basic math and measurements after I’d been out of school so long. You lose it if you don’t use it.
Did you get the teacher support you needed?
I had three different instructors and loved all three of them. They all kept their doors open and gave me the feeling they really cared.
I struggled with information-sticking, so I had a tough time with some exams. Mr. Doyle (instructor) would ask me the same question in a different way and remind me, “You know this.” And the way he would rephrase the question, a lightbulb would go off. He helped me to get out of my own way.
What was a favorite moment in your HVAC-R program?
Working, troubleshooting together as a unit in class: camaraderie, learning together. Always someone there to support you – guys and girls. We had two females in our class, and they were amazing. I went in not knowing any of those kids but probably wouldn’t have completed the course as successfully without them.
I still have a few of their phone numbers and if my boss (current) is looking for someone to hire, I’m texting them.
What was your work/school schedule?
I worked three jobs, 45 hours, 7-days a week, while I was going to school full-time. I had to pay bills. My ‘fun’ was going to the gym for 45-60 minutes, four days a week.
What inspired you to keep pushing?
A vision that I could be licensed and certified – credentials I could fall back on no matter what. And the realization that I can always get employment in something that is always going to be needed. The need for heating and cooling is never going out of business.
Did you have family support?
My three boys (age 20, 25 and 27) are proud of me. The two younger ones are still at home and help out around the house since I’m not there very much. It used to be like pulling teeth to get them to clean up, but since I’m working two jobs and going to school, they help out a lot more.
As a recent HVAC-R graduate – any hindsight evaluations?
I think this is the best decision I’ve made at this stage in my life. My kids are happy, excited for me – and proud of me. It’s good to hear your kids say that. And I think it motivates them to know it’s never too late to start a new career.
How did you prepare for your first HVAC-R job search?
I did mock interviews with (SJVC) Career Services, and they helped me do my resume. They set up an interview for me with a company looking for an HVAC installer who knew how to install a mini-split unit – a compact unit for single rooms. I’d brushed up on that and watched a video in preparation.
During that interview I let them know I knew about mini-splits and installations. I was asked to install a mini-split unit right then and did so successfully. I started work there 8-days later.
What is a typical workday for you?
We might be running electrical lines, installing a new mini split or maintenance and cleaning. We service 2-3 houses in a day; we focus on quality instead of speed. We’re doing piping, electrical, a rough-in for a house under construction. Every house is different, every job an education.
What are future career possibilities?
The company I’m with leaves a lot of room for growth – even franchise. I could have my own business through this company. The owner tells me he wants me to run my own team. They’re looking out for me; treat me like family.
How does your family feel about what you have accomplished?
They’re proud of me; and it’s good to hear your kids say that. They love that I actually completed this and, I believe, motivates them to know it’s never too late to start a new career.
