Best HVAC Training - National Comfort Institute
The High-Performance HVAC Podcast

The High-Performance HVAC Podcast – Episode 105

Released April 2025

Training the Next Generation of HVAC Technicians

Recorded live at AHR Expo 2025

Adam and Dominick talk with Bryan and Leilani Orr to get the inside scoop on GRIT Foundation, a new non-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about careers in skilled trades including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. By creating hands-on learning camps across the US GRIT’s goal is to increase the percentage of young people in secondary education who choose to pursue a career in the trades.

Watch now:

Stream now:

Featuring:

  • Adam Mufich – National Comfort Institute

  • Dominick Guarino – National Comfort Institute

  • Bryan Orr – HVAC School/Kalos Services/GRIT Foundation

  • Leilani Orr – Kalos Services/GRIT Foundation

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Don’t miss an episode. Sign up to be notified via email when a new episode launches. We will never share your email with any 3rd parties.

Contact Us
First
Last

Wanna hear more?

New episodes are launched every other week. Check out the all the podcasts here or wherever you find your podcasts.

listen to other episodes:

When Duct Leakage Matters

Not all duct leakage is created equal. Steve Rogers from The Energy Conservatory explains the critical differences between leakage inside and outside the thermal envelope and how each affects comfort, efficiency, and performance. He also dives into diagnostic testing strategies that help uncover the real sources of airflow and comfort issues.

The Future of Design with Tony Amadio

Tony Amadio is the President of First Dimension Software and the developer of TrueLoads, a residential HVAC system design application. He brings more than 18 years of engineering experience in the HVACR industry, along with a strong background in HVAC education. Tony holds a Master of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Central Florida.

In this episode, Tony compares different methods of load calculations. He also talks about the importance of accuracy and what makes heat balance different.

Behind the Measurements: Talking Air Balancing with Scott Fielder

This week, Adam sits down with Scott Fielder from Evergreen Telemetry for a conversation about commercial air balancing, field measurement, and the stories behind Evergreen’s innovative tools. If you’ve ever thought about getting into commercial air balancing, this episode is for you.

A Deep Dive with Ed Janowiak (ACCA’s Manager of HVAC Design Education)

In this episode, we sit down with Ed Janowiak to explore his journey of measuring heat pump performance. Ed shares how he first began exploring airflow and BTU calculations, and how the same challenges contractors face today were already present decades ago. We also cover practical ways to measure coefficient of performance and quick diagnostic tests that can give valuable insights into system health. Whether you’re a veteran or just getting started, Ed’s perspective shows why mastering the fundamentals of measurement is the key to solving comfort issues that never seem to go away.

Dominating Your Market

At the NCI Summit, we sat down with Brian Wright and Axle Romero to learn how they’ve used advanced diagnostics to set their company apart. From solving tough comfort problems to tackling serious health concerns, they share their journey in becoming the go-to choice in their market. This conversation is packed with real-world lessons for contractors who want to grow their reputation, deliver measurable results, and raise the bar for high-performance HVAC.

One Year in the Life of a High-Performance HVAC Contractor

At the NCI Summit, we sat down with Anthony Woo to hear his powerful story of discovery and growth. Anthony shares how he first connected with NCI, the impact it’s had on his professional journey, and the lessons he’s learned over the past year. From new skills to real-world successes, this conversation highlights how training and education can transform not just a career, but an entire approach to residential HVAC.

Static Pressure Sales vs High Pressure Sales

In this episode, we unpack the difference between pushy, outdated sales tactics and data-driven conversations that build trust. Al D’Ambola shares highlights from his Summit presentation, including how to make measurements relatable for homeowners and a creative approach to following up with customers. Whether you’re a contractor aiming to boost credibility or a homeowner tired of sales gimmicks, you’ll see why high-performance sales isn’t about high pressure, it’s about delivering real solutions.