Chattanooga Is Building a New Technical School - Just What We Needed?

Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp spoke last Friday at the East Brainerd Kiwanis Club, where he revealed plans for a new technical school, or vocational school in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. The county has a goal to open the doors 2 years from now.

This initiative hits close to home for us, as our owner, John Giles, honed his HVAC skills at the historic Kirkman Technical High School, laying the foundation for a successful career in a trade that’s always in demand.

Kirkman Technical

Decades ago, Kirkman Technical High School in Chattanooga sat atop Hawk Hill in downtown. It was a beacon for young people eager to master hands-on skills. It was there that our owner, John Giles, learned the HVAC trade as a young man. Kirkman offered a practical education that equipped students with real-world skills, preparing them for careers in fields like heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. For John, the training he received at Kirkman wasn’t just about technical know-how—it was about building confidence, problem-solving, and finding a path to a rewarding career. His journey from Kirkman to running Scenic Air Solutions, a trusted family-owned HVAC business, is a testament to the power of technical education.

Kirkman Technical, which closed in 1991, was more than a school; it was a launchpad for students who thrived in hands-on environments rather than traditional academic settings. Its closure left a gap in our community, but the announcement of a new technical high school signals a revival of that legacy—a chance to empower the next generation of skilled workers.

The Trade Worker Shortage: A National and Local Crisis

The need for a new technical school in Chattanooga couldn’t come at a better time. Across the U.S., the skilled trades are facing a massive worker shortage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for HVAC technicians is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations, with about 37,700 openings expected each year due to growth and retirements. In Chattanooga, this shortage is acutely felt as our growing city demands more skilled workers to maintain and install HVAC systems in homes, businesses, and new developments.

The reasons for this shortage are clear: an aging workforce, fewer young people entering the trades, and a societal emphasis on four-year college degrees over technical training. Yet, trades like HVAC offer stable, well-paying careers—often without the burden of student debt. At Scenic Air Solutions, we see firsthand how critical skilled technicians are to keeping Chattanooga comfortable year-round, from sweltering summers to chilly winters.

A Path for Every Student

Not every student fits the traditional mold of “book smart” or excels at memorization and standardized tests. For many, hands-on learning is where they shine. Technical schools like the one Mayor Wamp is prioritizing provide an environment where students can discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop skills that lead to in-demand careers. Learning to troubleshoot an HVAC system, install a tankless water heater, or maintain a geothermal unit isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and pride in tangible results.

For students who may feel overlooked in conventional academic settings, trades offer a chance to thrive. At Scenic Air Solutions, we’ve seen how mastering a skill like HVAC can transform a young person’s life, giving them purpose and a clear path to success. John Giles is a perfect example: his time at Kirkman Technical gave him the tools to build a business that serves the public and provides stable income for his family and the families of the crew at Scenic Air.

Why We’re Rooting for Chattanooga’s New Technical School

Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp’s vision to bring back a technical high school is a bold step toward addressing the trade worker shortage and empowering Chattanooga’s youth. A new technical school could train students in high-demand fields like HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, and more, ensuring our community has the skilled workforce it needs to grow. At Scenic Air Solutions, we’re particularly excited about the potential to train more HVAC technicians. As one of the top-3 installers of inverter HVAC systems in East Tennessee, we know how vital skilled workers are to delivering cutting-edge, energy-efficient solutions to our customers.

This new school could also strengthen Chattanooga’s economy by preparing students for careers that are both rewarding and recession-resistant. HVAC technicians, for example, are needed in every season and every economic climate—after all, everyone needs a comfortable home. By investing in technical education, Chattanooga is investing in its future, and we at Scenic Air Solutions wish this project the best of success.

Join the Trade Revolution with Scenic Air Solutions

The revival of technical education in Chattanooga is a cause for celebration, and we’re proud to support it. If you’re a student, parent, or educator curious about the opportunities in HVAC, reach out to Scenic Air Solutions. We’re passionate about mentoring the next generation of technicians and sharing the legacy that started with John Giles at Kirkman Technical. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more skilled Chattanooga—one comfortable home at a time.