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The skilled trades have a workforce problem. Across the country — and right here in Upstate SC — there aren’t enough qualified HVAC technicians, plumbers, and electricians to meet demand. Walk through any Upstate job fair and you’ll see HVAC and plumbing companies competing for the same shrinking pool of candidates. Experienced technicians who learned the trade in the ’90s and 2000s are approaching retirement, and the pipeline of new talent hasn’t kept pace.
Waldrop University — our in-house training program — is our answer to that challenge. It’s also how technicians like Gage, Noah, Caleb, and Blake got their start and built careers earning $50,000-$80,000+ doing skilled work they’re genuinely proud of.
What Is Waldrop University?
Waldrop University is our internal training and apprenticeship program. It takes motivated individuals – whether they’re fresh out of high school, changing careers, or looking to advance from helper to technician – and develops them into skilled, confident professionals through hands-on training and mentorship.
This isn’t a classroom-only program. Students work alongside experienced technicians in the field from day one, learning real-world skills on real jobs while earning a paycheck.
Who It’s For
- High school graduates interested in a skilled trade career
- Career changers looking for stable, well-paying work
- Current Waldrop team members looking to advance their skills
- Veterans transitioning to civilian careers
- Anyone willing to learn and work hard
No prior experience is required. What we look for: reliability, willingness to learn, problem-solving aptitude, and the ability to work as part of a team.
What You’ll Learn
HVAC track: System fundamentals, refrigeration theory, electrical diagnosis, equipment installation, maintenance procedures, duct design, and troubleshooting. Students work toward NATE certification – the industry’s gold standard.
Plumbing track: Pipe fitting, drain cleaning, fixture installation, water heater service, gas line work, code compliance, and diagnostic techniques.
Electrical track: Residential wiring, panel installation, circuit design, troubleshooting, code requirements, and safety protocols.
Why the Skilled Trades
The numbers speak for themselves:
- Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth in HVAC technician jobs and 16% growth in plumbing jobs through 2032 – much faster than average.
- Earnings: Experienced HVAC technicians and plumbers in the Upstate earn $50,000-$80,000+ depending on specialization and performance.
- No student debt: You’re learning on the job, earning while you train – no $40,000+ college loans.
- Job security: Every home and building needs HVAC, plumbing, and electrical service. This work can’t be outsourced or automated.
- Career ownership: Master these skills and you have options – work for a company, start your own, or specialize in areas like commercial refrigeration or controls.
What Makes Waldrop University Different
Paid from day one. Students earn while they learn. No unpaid internships or apprenticeships.
Mentorship model. Every student is paired with an experienced technician who provides hands-on training in the field. You’re not watching YouTube videos – you’re solving real problems in real homes.
Advancement path. Waldrop U isn’t just entry-level training. We invest in ongoing education for our entire team – manufacturer certifications, code updates, new technology training, and leadership development.
Community roots. Waldrop has served the Upstate since 1970. This program is our investment in the next generation of technicians who will serve this community for decades to come.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in starting a career in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical – or if you know someone who is – contact us. We’re always looking for the next generation of Waldrop professionals.
YOUTUBE EMBED: Got High Water Pressure? This One Valve Fixes It FAST — @YallCallWally
Call Waldrop Plumbing Air Electric at (864) 536-0887 or visit www.callwaldrop.com to learn more about Waldrop University.
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