I have always been handy, the one friends and family call on to take something apart and figure out what was wrong and how to fix it. I enjoyed tinkering early on and graduated to larger projects in and outside of work hours. Even though by this time I was in a full time carpentry apprenticeship, the call towards HVAC was strong. I knew many people who were dealing with technicians not being timely or professional, or getting unexpected bills with tons of hidden fees. The choice for people seemed to be affordable hacks or unaffordable professionals. I knew if I had the opportunity, I’d do everything professionally, affordably, and ethically.
So I took the plunge. While working a full time job, I took online college courses at night to get my first certification. Once I could legally handle refrigerant I took a pay cut and started an apprenticeship with a local HVAC contractor.
After several years working and continuing my education, it became time to apply my beliefs to my own company, and I very quickly knew it’s name. Arete!