Fieldpiece Instruments, a proven category leader known for delivering innovative and high-quality HVACR test tools for more than 30 years, has awarded $2,500 #MasteroftheTrade scholarships to 10 SkillsUSA students committed to studying for a fulfilling career in the HVACR industry. The grant awarded by Fieldpiece is intended to support aspiring HVACR techs in their continued education and will be used to pay for college or postsecondary HVACR technology program tuition.

The Fieldpiece #MasteroftheTrade Scholarship, in partnership with SkillsUSA, was designed to support the next generation of up-and-coming HVACR professionals, with a concurrent aim to close the skills gap in the U.S. labor market for the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration trade.

Through the partnership with SkillsUSA, Fieldpiece Instruments aims to give back to the industry as well as do its part to address 80,000 jobs that are currently vacant and in need of being filled. Without HVACR pros energy is wasted, food goes bad and people’s comfort and safety are at stake. HVACR is a stable, great-paying trade that offers freedom, hands-on work and the chance to make a big impact on the environment and the community.

“We thank Fieldpiece Instruments for supporting the HVACR industry and America’s future skilled workforce,” said Chelle Travis, executive director at SkillsUSA. “It is exciting to see these students pursue further education in HVACR. They have demonstrated a true passion for the industry, and we are thrilled they will receive these scholarships.”

SkillsUSA students and recipients of the Fieldpiece #MasteroftheTrade Scholarship include the following:

Alabama: Josh Parson, Bevill State Community College, Hamilton Campus
Florida: Johnny Hammonds, Pinellas Technical College
Maryland: William “Billy” Coughlin, Career and Technology Center
Missouri: Cole Hamby, Northland Career Center
Minnesota: Becca Thorstad, Hennepin Technical College
Oklahoma: Josh Parish, Kiamichi Technology Center
Oklahoma: Leslie Plemons, Moore-Norman Technology Center
Tennessee: Jack Ely, Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Chattanooga Campus
Texas:  Dave Jentis, Western Technical College
Texas: Manuel Ramirez, Western Technical College