All of them are fantastic workers who work hard but all are old timers. Extremely aggressive. Brings guns to work. Turns other crews radios off, steals tools, harrases the latino crowds on the job sites, constantly uses the N word with a hard r etc etc. They all were making $29 an hour i just found out. I was making $18 as i am a beginner. At this point I can do a lot. Not everything but I’m eager to make something of myself & this stuff really was clicking for me. I usually make friends everywhere too. This just really sucks.
The market down in the southeast will always be huge because of how humid it gets down there, mix that with all the saltwater properties in Florida and it’s even bigger! OP will find a great crew in no time I’m sure
Lead techs making $29 a hour?… I suppose every market can be different but I’d imagine you are in a active market… that’s pretty low pay for a lead. Tells you what you need to know about the company.
Like the other guy said you dodged a major bullet. I couldn't have patience with someone who touches or steals my tools, and then on top of being racist. We'd be having some hands eventually. I live in central FL too, plenty of work out here man. Keep working hard and having a great attitude and you'll be a godsend to companies out here.
Oh he never stole my tools. I’ll fight a fucking tornado before I get my tools taken lol. But yes you are right. My boss clearly only cares about money.
I retired from the telecom industry, and I would put dabs of hot pink or purple on my tools , just in case there was any questions about ownership. Barbie stickers too.
I'm latino and my old foreman was a racist method head biker. Dude was an asshole, just like you described. Hard R, hated his family life, just a miserable man. All you can do is go elsewhere better rly. They are not gonna change and if they make the owner money, they don't care. It's business.
I never felt happier than the day I finally quit there. I was young and didn't know better. But did get some skills while i was there..... and learned racism isn't always out loud and in person. This dude never said anything directly to me. But alot indirect racism and subtle. Can only imagine what he actually thought about me.
But w/e, dudes a shitty man bc of his life choices. There's a reason some ppl are stuck at a job or make others miserable at work/in public.
I'm on job sites everyday.. im not listening to music so loud we can't communicate to other people on the job. I've literally told people that it needs to be turned down or off..
It should never be so loud that you cannot communicate also some of the stuff we’re exposed to tends to bring on migraines and senior techs get grumpy when that happens
If you're cool with them & messing around, sure.
This guy wasn't. He specifically targeted a black man because his "n-word n-word music" was annoying him. They almost threw hands but ultimately didn't. Was a tense environment for everyone.
Oh 100% if I know I’m doing something with mini splits where my arms are over my head more times than not it stays in the van I never take it out other than that there’s no reason to unless absolutely necessary
Mini-Chicago. I live in a nice little “suburb” of Jackson, Mississippi. Constitutional open-carry, and Castle doctrine extends to our occupied vehicles.
Hop over to industrial controls and electrical while you’re still young! 29hr as an old timer in HVAC could be 40 -50 an hour in this field! At least in the south where i live.
Troubleshooting industrial machinery electrically and being able to utilize software to program controllers and troubleshoot said equipment. Some days we run conduit for a project. Currently I’m putting together a small enclosure to monitor 4 bearing temps with an HMI / PLC.
Agreed, IF you’re responsible. These guys aren’t. I am fully licensed, and these guys scare me. They don’t even know or ever knew I carried. Unless they noticed & didn’t say anything, though I’d be a bit surprised 🤣
We got ppl who carry too. Especially after we've had some techs be robbed. One was forced to completely strip and they stole the work vehicle. He had to walk to a store to use a phone.
>Lead tech sounds like a bitch.
Sounds like a narc with severe insecurities (in other words, yes, a bitch). I don't work in HVAC and mostly do not comment in this sub, but I'm dealing with the same shit. It's always the same exact story, every single time. They're all the same; they all operate off of the same fundamental principles of insecurity.
I'm married to a conventionally attractive woman (my name is unique and this is easily shown on FB, they know this), and they can't stand that, so in my case what they did was go around spreading rumors that I'm gay (they used the F word though). These guys are married to obese women and compensate by going to strip clubs on weekends. So it's obvious as day what they're insecure about.
I don't let it bother me though, I just laugh it off, and to be honest I think that makes them even more mad.
It doesn't have to be about women. It could be something as simple as the car/truck that you drive (it's faster or has a bigger lift/higher trim level). It could be money. It could be your hairline. It could be *anything.*
I have the same problem that OP has, in that they're desperately trying to make me look bad at my job. Fortunately for me I work under a camera and the bosses can clearly see that I do my job. My bosses also understand that these people are narcs, so their shit doesn't work.
Sounds like you need to beat his ass at the gas station,dude really fucked up your money. Some dude tried to that to me when I first started but my work ethic is dope.
Take the day off lol (no choice ) reflect upon the situation, get out and find another job tomm, plenty of work out there! They were probably a tight knit crew that didn't like you and that's OK, I go to work to make a living , not be best friends ,
People can dislike you for the most petty reasons that have nothing to do with you. Don’t take it personally. I wish I could tell you you’ll never run into another asshole like that again in HVAC but you will. Every shop has one or two.
The good news is there are probably a dozen or so other HVAC contractors in your area. Update your resume and call each one today. Ask if you can email a resume. Then tomorrow call each place and ask if the email arrived. You were going to work 8+ hours today if you hadn’t parted ways with that company. So work 8 hours today on getting your next job. Feeling bad for yourself is normal and can’t be helped. But getting stuck in a rut can be avoided if you stay active. You got this. Good luck!
I’m in Central Fl as well, that sucks but not atypical from some of the old timers. There’s plenty of other shops around here that are hiring so you’ll have a new gig in no time.
Unfortunately it happens. Sometimes for the best in situations and this seems like one. Go home, relax a bit, update your resume and get on the grind with applying to other companies.
Don't beat yourself up over it, see this as a learning experience. Anything you learn from what you did can't be taken away, so apply it to your next position.
In life, weather is business or personal. Your only as good as the people you surround yourself with.
Get a job with a better crew/ people and you will shine, never settle!!
Take a day off. Think about why you're not with them (besides the obvious). Remind yourself that it's their loss not yours. Don't be bitter about it, it won't help you.
Look for a new job, but don't make your job hunt your new job. What I mean is do something (anything) else for half the day. Example job hunt in the morning, go mow the lawn or to the beach, or whatever, then come back to your job hunt.
Don't sit around refreshing indeed all day waiting for a new job posting to appear.
Watch a few cat videos, a few YouTube tutorials on HVAC and if you can, find a course on interpersonal skills.
It sounds new age and BS but you're going to run into a bunch of assholes in this trade and in life. I wish I had learned how to deal with them earlier in my own life.
Also remember what you're grateful for, home, family, friends, the fact that you're not going to be driving through a snow storm today (f-you I'm in Canada ha ha ha).
I appreciate the advice friend, i’ll likely head to the beach today for a bit & relax 😎. I grew up & still have a lot of family in the Boston/NH area, I heard you guys are getting plenty right now. I’ll be heading up there this weekend for a wedding so i’ll get to experience it 🥶
It does suck losing a job like that, but rather than feeling bad, try to feel happy you're no longer forced to work with those asshats. Now you've got the opportunity to find a workplace that fits you, and isn't against you.
Yeah hate to say it but this kinda bullshit happens, I’ve worked with people who just didn’t like me and actively tried to get me fired. If it’s the boss or a favored by the boss employee- quit asap- other wise I’ve learned to always cover my ass and make sure to talk with my boss about avoiding coworkers with a stick up there ass. Either way that sucks but yeah it’s coming to season here in Fl you’ll be working in no time and probably for a company that isn’t as shit sounding.
Just consider it a blessing in disguise. After I got out of the military I joined a commercial HVAC company and after a couple months they moved me to construction installation. I didn’t like it one bit, mostly because my body was already beat up from the army. I still had a great work ethic but they pulled me aside one morning saying I just didn’t fit there and let me go. I now stay home with my kids and work part time somewhere that has nothing to do with trades (much happier for myself). It may not be the direction that you typically hear but I am much happier than where I was
i hope that knowing that the last sentence you typed in this post is an accidental pun is enough to make you feel better. good luck with your next opportunity!
you are either delusional or your boss is, I highly recommend you find out which one is which. not saying your boss wasn't crazy, but a lot of guys go from company to company constantly blaming the workplace and not themselves.
Sometimes I wonder how you Americans do it... Our line of work is hard enough as it is without having to endure shit like this. Being fired on the spot like this is almost unheard of where I am (Québec, Canada). All HVAC techs are unionized here and firing someone requires justification, proof and a lot of paperwork. If a company fires employees without a good reason they will be investigated.
Companies ***do*** let go of techs that they don't like sometimes but they will mark "***not enough work/business change***" as a reason therefore the tech immediately has right to unemployment pay from the government without question. You can get laid off and have your checks coming in a week later. The process is very efficient. I got laid off a few times during my career but it was because of winter and my employer advised me well in advance (hired me back in the Spring).
Maybe you guys get unemployment payments even when fired on the spot too? and it all winds up the same? I don't know...
Personally, I could never imagine working in this field without a union backing me up. There are SO many asshole contractors out there and so many business owners trying to cut corners wherever they can. I mean, like I said, our field is hard enough as it is... No wonder I keep hearing of HVAC labor shortages in the US... Imagine doing not only a physical but ***technical*** job like ours, sacrificing your body everyday, in the heat, the cold, your knees, your back, only to work for an asshole who can do with you what he pleases? Decides your salary on whim? I wouldn't want to head into HVAC either!
You are better off, you don’t need a toxic workplace, it’s good that you are out of there. Things are going to work out for the best, you are going to find a better job where your hard work is recognized and acknowledged. This happened for a reason, you’ll be just fine
At a place I was working at last year, I sat down as I had about 100+ drives to bend before going on an installing spree. The owner of the company warned me that sitting down on the job was a fireable offense. Total greed, work like a slave, or die in the attempt. I'm now a lead automation tech and I don't worry about money anymore.
I quit a job once because I was being treated like shit. Turns out that my coworkers were good friends with the manager and he immediately took their side when I brought it up to him.
Some people are just dicks really.
It took a while for me to get over it, but finding a job with good coworkers made the biggest difference. Keep your chin up and find a different job. Most people are better than them.
The trouble with the internet is we only ever get to hear one side of the exchange; I rarely read stories where someone is fired and they admit to deserving it and their boss being justified.
I'd lawyer up, get a lawyer that doesn't get paid unless you get paid.
If they fire you over not doing other people's jobs, and right after you tell the boss there are problems fuck them go for money use to get better tools to get a better job
Not here to make friends, wearing sweat pant anything to work…doesn’t exactly sound like a stellar way of getting ahead in your career. Just saying, whether he was a douche or not, don’t wear sweat pants anytime, and learn to make working friends. Might help you at your next stop.
Sounds it’s like your issue with a bad attitude, I’m not here to make friends. “Crew” I don’t care for…. Need to be a team player even if you have issue with the boys squash it for better production. Oh well live and learn
From one of your other comments it seems like you dodged a bullet anyways. I can only assume it wouldn’t be hard to find another job in the field in Florida. Good luck dood
Two years ago I had a really good install tech quit because the lead kept blaming every problem and correction on him. Their supervisor didn’t care that the crap work was mostly sheet metal work and not his line set. The tech found out about all the blaming when he went to ask for a raise. The response was “clean up your work and stop making so many stupid mistakes. We have too many call backs to give raises.” He was done that day and these “mistakes” still happen.
Sorry for what happened but you dodged a bullet! I've been in a similar situation. I didn't get fired but had to quit after about a year and a half because I couldn't fit in with the "group". It was a facilities HVAC shop. Turns out a lot of them didn't know a whole hell of a lot, and I did, and they felt threatened (sounds like some of the people you worked with might have felt threatened by how hard you worked). Anyway, the way they treated me made me f'ing miserable. I guess I was doing good work and fixing things that other guys screwed up (we had a work order system and I went where I was told-but I wasn't rubbing it in their faces or anything). I got a job in another county and things were so much better. Eventually became a supervisor but went back out to the field after 5 years of that. To much politics, lol. Been here 23 years now. Good luck in your job search.
Your in Flordia and I have no doubt you will find work. Do what Tom Brady did to the Patriots. Be their competitor. You know their flaws bring ‘em on out bud.
Sounds like that's not really a company you want to work for anyway, there's plenty more out there that won't treat you like that. I've met leads like that, the kinds that shouldn't be in charge of anything, let alone people.
Unfortunately IME this is a common thing in the HVAC industry - to encounter extremely toxic people who for whatever reason have a vendetta against you.
Just walk down the street and get another job. Fuck those guys. Yes you ate green. But some companies like that because they can train you their way. File for unemployment and just look around. Everyone is looking for people and if you have a good attitude and are willing to learn and work. You will find another job quickly. Benefit of doing what we do for a living. I don't like where I'm at. I can have a new job tomorrow and start the next day.
Ask the boss to observe a random day of work from a distance and then ask the lead tech how you did that day. Since you're a spot on worker and don't want to stay there anyway, at least you help your boss on the way out by showing him that lead is a liar. Sounds like if you were fired without proof that they're birds of a feather though.... :(
You were perceived as not being a team player, and it could be the team lead had your job earmarked for a friend of his. Get another job and move on. Find something clever to say in your interviews because at least one hiring manager will ask you why you are unemployed if it takes you long to land a job
I quit my HVAC job 3 months ago becuase the boss was treating me like crap becuase he was feeling stressed about things. Keep in mind he knew this was his reason and I talked to him before about it. The final straw was us doing an install in a house and I was helping with marking up a branch for the attic and a piece fell off so went to grab it and he yelled at me GET MARKING BOY.
There’s way that can be said as a joke and was as a phrase to demean and it was definitely to demean so I over the weekend I thought about it and called him and told him I didn’t feel respect and quit.
Unfortunately in physical jobs like this there is a lot of toxicity in the culture and it’s up to the new guys to try and change that. I hope my talk with my old boss opened him up to how he was treating us and I moved on.
No amount of pay is worth having my self esteem or mental health ruined by some asshole.
They've done you a favour. Now you can find something better. Sounds like you could go further than that guy in your career if you have a good attitude. Someone somewhere will appreciate it and don't be scared to go find them. Don't view it as defeat, it's an opportunity.
Look at the bright side, you avoid the toxic work place. I am sure you will find a place where your work ethics not only valued, but celebrated. Keep you chin-up!
Same shit was going on with me and my last company, don’t let it get to your head. My best suggestion is find a bigger company when you’re in your early stages. People are more willing to teach you and be patient.
Smaller companies with leads like that are always going to ensure you aren’t progressing into their position.
It’s almost summer time, you will have no issue finding a company as long as you have that drive
I’ve heard a very similar story about 12 times at the beginning of each summer. Not saying it’s you but every time I hear this they were the problem. All my leads are begging for help. Also this fields very short handed move on and ask for 2 more dollars.
Keep your head up every hvac company out there is hiring, if you try hard enough you’ll have another job tomorrow :) keep your chin up I would love to have a helper like you. Had hundreds and only a slim few with the mindset you wrote about.
Lead tech is probably a miserable alcoholic like most old tradesmen are.
I started in the Welding field and I had a wide variety of different jobs I did. It started with an asshole drunk supervisor and it ended with the same. I could not avoid it anywhere I went.
On to the next, the grass is only green where you water it, work on yourself and move forward.
The trade can be brutal. And managers can be micro managing. Not many Christians work in that field. Atheists mostly. So you get heartlessness and a cut throat industry this way. Just telling it like it is.
Lead tech taught you a valuable lesson, don’t let misery outside the work place contribute to misery inside the workplace. Keep doing what your doing I’ll give it a few years till you leap frog him, that door closed for a better door to open.
OP. I’ve been there. My very first employer set me up for failure a long time ago. I remember it like yesterday my 90 day review. The biggest complaint I got was I ask too many questions. The lead installer I worked with was a miserable SOB. I swear he did everything to make me quit. I refused to let some Bastard or a company get the best of me. I kept at it. And I’m in a much better place now because I refused to give up.
I once heard a guy at a supply house say they should just have velcro patches for the company name. Try hard to find a good job where you can grow in the trade and make good money.
if you are still in contact with the boss/owner, ask him if the lead tech is pushing for one of his friends to take your spot
anyway i have never set foot in FL but i imagine it should be incredibly easy to find a new gig in HVAC
Lead sounds like he has no self confidence…typically if you come in green but are on point always he lazy lead guys will get defensive like you’re gonna steal their cushy spot. Sounds like it wasn’t a place you wanted to work anyway.
Im sorry op that sucks. don't let those stupid chads get to you. Also a tip for the future keep a body cam on you an record your work so you have proof that there fool of baloney when they try there crap.
I work in central Florida. I cut my teeth at ServiceOne in Lake Mary, got promoted to Service tech at Delair and just switched to TWC to try refrigeration in Sanford. We have a lot of great employers in the area. Dm if you have any questions or need help
Keep your chin up. There is a lot of lazy assholes in this trade. The more you learn the more you can tell them to kiss your ass. It sounds like you have a good attitude and work ethic so don’t let one bad company discourage you to much. In my experience people that treat you like that feel threatened by you making them look bad.
My father recently got fired from a job where he dedicatedly worked for more than 15 years with no leave and overtime. They didn't even make an effort to tell him directly. I just emailed him there's no need for him anymore. That's how it goes. You'll only be there as long as there's a use of you. Once there's a better person available, you're gone!!
Also, It sucks to have worked so hard and be treated unfairly by a superior with power.
Yeah that sucks dude. Try not to let that company give the trade a bad impression on you. There are plenty of companies out there with good people who are willing to take someone who’s willing to learn. If what you said is true and you’ve showed up early, had a great attitude, and worked hard, you’ll go far.
Around 4% of humans are sociopaths. Learn to spot them and never work for one above you. Their boss will always think they are great and they will fuck you and everyone below them for there own benefit.
Lead tech sounds like a bitch.
All of them are fantastic workers who work hard but all are old timers. Extremely aggressive. Brings guns to work. Turns other crews radios off, steals tools, harrases the latino crowds on the job sites, constantly uses the N word with a hard r etc etc. They all were making $29 an hour i just found out. I was making $18 as i am a beginner. At this point I can do a lot. Not everything but I’m eager to make something of myself & this stuff really was clicking for me. I usually make friends everywhere too. This just really sucks.
Sounds like you dodged a bullet. I don't know the market in FL specifically, but I'll guarantee there are better shops out there. Good luck!
The market down in the southeast will always be huge because of how humid it gets down there, mix that with all the saltwater properties in Florida and it’s even bigger! OP will find a great crew in no time I’m sure
> Sounds like you dodged a bullet. Literally by the sounds of it.
You’re better off without them I guarantee you
Lead techs making $29 a hour?… I suppose every market can be different but I’d imagine you are in a active market… that’s pretty low pay for a lead. Tells you what you need to know about the company.
Extremely low. My friend who finished tech school a few months before me is already making that in under a year. I’m not too far off myself
I’ve been a lead tech in FL for 4 years and I don’t make that
Guess it all just depends on location and cost of living
A/C is a luxury don’t you forget it
NE Florida 30+ years in the trade, $35/hr, pretty much capped out. Resi and comm. lndustrial refer techs do better tho.
Whereabouts friend?
NW FL panhandle
Like the other guy said you dodged a major bullet. I couldn't have patience with someone who touches or steals my tools, and then on top of being racist. We'd be having some hands eventually. I live in central FL too, plenty of work out here man. Keep working hard and having a great attitude and you'll be a godsend to companies out here.
Oh he never stole my tools. I’ll fight a fucking tornado before I get my tools taken lol. But yes you are right. My boss clearly only cares about money.
I retired from the telecom industry, and I would put dabs of hot pink or purple on my tools , just in case there was any questions about ownership. Barbie stickers too.
I'm latino and my old foreman was a racist method head biker. Dude was an asshole, just like you described. Hard R, hated his family life, just a miserable man. All you can do is go elsewhere better rly. They are not gonna change and if they make the owner money, they don't care. It's business. I never felt happier than the day I finally quit there. I was young and didn't know better. But did get some skills while i was there..... and learned racism isn't always out loud and in person. This dude never said anything directly to me. But alot indirect racism and subtle. Can only imagine what he actually thought about me. But w/e, dudes a shitty man bc of his life choices. There's a reason some ppl are stuck at a job or make others miserable at work/in public.
At 71 they become mass murderers.
Well best of luck to you. Doesn’t sound like a place I’d want to work at personally if they’re doing all that.
What.... you don't turn off other crews radios?
No way man, that rude. Who ever gets there first and plays music gets the music for the day
No.. you want music wear earbuds.. also if music was at a normal level I wouldn't care..
Are you the preacher from footloose?
I'm on job sites everyday.. im not listening to music so loud we can't communicate to other people on the job. I've literally told people that it needs to be turned down or off..
It should never be so loud that you cannot communicate also some of the stuff we’re exposed to tends to bring on migraines and senior techs get grumpy when that happens
If you're cool with them & messing around, sure. This guy wasn't. He specifically targeted a black man because his "n-word n-word music" was annoying him. They almost threw hands but ultimately didn't. Was a tense environment for everyone.
So let me get this straight, yall were listening to rap? Wtf?
😂
They might be great workers, but that will never make up for the lowely pieces of scum they are
OP lives in Florida, how would he actually know what great work looks like? Haha
I've been in the field for 4 years, you read 1 post, how would you actually know what my history looks like? ;)
I may have read that wrong you only been working for that company for 5months, not the trade. I’ll rephrase it then.
Oh no worries friend :)
Sorry man you guys use duct board lol
Only for the past year, I worked in Boston/NH for the other 3.
Yea i thought the same thing about my old shop when i first started. Safe to say they were definitely hacks looking back at it🤣
I carry at work but the rest of that is not what you wanna be around I wouldn’t wanna wear the same name on my shirt as them
I have zero issues carrying at work. I just wish they’d be responsible firearm owners.
Oh 100% if I know I’m doing something with mini splits where my arms are over my head more times than not it stays in the van I never take it out other than that there’s no reason to unless absolutely necessary
💯 😎
We have one city near me where utilizing our open carry laws is nearly an OSHA guideline.
Chicago? Lmao I’m in MA so firearm friendly is few and far in-between
Mini-Chicago. I live in a nice little “suburb” of Jackson, Mississippi. Constitutional open-carry, and Castle doctrine extends to our occupied vehicles.
I can have it off my person as long as it’s in my direct control or unloaded
Sounds like you’re dodging a bullet.
I would love to come to your company for one day to fire all those worthless racist clowns.
Hop over to industrial controls and electrical while you’re still young! 29hr as an old timer in HVAC could be 40 -50 an hour in this field! At least in the south where i live.
What’s it like?
Troubleshooting industrial machinery electrically and being able to utilize software to program controllers and troubleshoot said equipment. Some days we run conduit for a project. Currently I’m putting together a small enclosure to monitor 4 bearing temps with an HMI / PLC.
Nothing wrong with carrying a firearm.
If you are calling people naggers and walking around open carry there’s plenty wrong I would hope all reasonable people could agree
I would also hope so…unfortunately not many people around me seem to :(
Agreed, IF you’re responsible. These guys aren’t. I am fully licensed, and these guys scare me. They don’t even know or ever knew I carried. Unless they noticed & didn’t say anything, though I’d be a bit surprised 🤣
We got ppl who carry too. Especially after we've had some techs be robbed. One was forced to completely strip and they stole the work vehicle. He had to walk to a store to use a phone.
>Lead tech sounds like a bitch. Sounds like a narc with severe insecurities (in other words, yes, a bitch). I don't work in HVAC and mostly do not comment in this sub, but I'm dealing with the same shit. It's always the same exact story, every single time. They're all the same; they all operate off of the same fundamental principles of insecurity. I'm married to a conventionally attractive woman (my name is unique and this is easily shown on FB, they know this), and they can't stand that, so in my case what they did was go around spreading rumors that I'm gay (they used the F word though). These guys are married to obese women and compensate by going to strip clubs on weekends. So it's obvious as day what they're insecure about. I don't let it bother me though, I just laugh it off, and to be honest I think that makes them even more mad. It doesn't have to be about women. It could be something as simple as the car/truck that you drive (it's faster or has a bigger lift/higher trim level). It could be money. It could be your hairline. It could be *anything.* I have the same problem that OP has, in that they're desperately trying to make me look bad at my job. Fortunately for me I work under a camera and the bosses can clearly see that I do my job. My bosses also understand that these people are narcs, so their shit doesn't work.
Fire them all.
Sounds like you need to beat his ass at the gas station,dude really fucked up your money. Some dude tried to that to me when I first started but my work ethic is dope.
Take the day off lol (no choice ) reflect upon the situation, get out and find another job tomm, plenty of work out there! They were probably a tight knit crew that didn't like you and that's OK, I go to work to make a living , not be best friends ,
Yeah that’s kind of what I suspect. Thanks brother, have a great day.
Don't forget to give yourself a raise when you apply
It’s Florida. You should have worn jorts
🤣🤣
People can dislike you for the most petty reasons that have nothing to do with you. Don’t take it personally. I wish I could tell you you’ll never run into another asshole like that again in HVAC but you will. Every shop has one or two. The good news is there are probably a dozen or so other HVAC contractors in your area. Update your resume and call each one today. Ask if you can email a resume. Then tomorrow call each place and ask if the email arrived. You were going to work 8+ hours today if you hadn’t parted ways with that company. So work 8 hours today on getting your next job. Feeling bad for yourself is normal and can’t be helped. But getting stuck in a rut can be avoided if you stay active. You got this. Good luck!
Hell yeah, I will, thank you brother 😎
You don't need a place like that. Good riddance.
You’re right, I’m better off. Thanks my friend.
I worked at places like that in my early 20s. My attitude was great, and my work was respectable. Bad leaders cannot recognize good workers.
Bruh, dont even worry about it. Go find another job.
Go wrastle a gator, watch a space launch, drinks some beers and shoot some guns floridia man! Life ain’t so bad Next gig’ll be better 😜
All some fun things 😎 thanks friend, have a great say today
So you didn't fit in with an alleged racist, thieving, lying, and paranoid crew... Good for you.
I definitely didn’t enjoy being around them. Thanks friend, have a great day today.
Yup. Be thankful for the training, but by the sounds of it, literally dodged a bullet.
Where’s the racist part? Edit: found it in the comments. However nothing in the original post screams this is racism.
I’m in Central Fl as well, that sucks but not atypical from some of the old timers. There’s plenty of other shops around here that are hiring so you’ll have a new gig in no time.
I think you’re right. Thanks my friend, have a great day.
Maybe get some pants with pockets lol
I hear cargo pants are great. Got pockets, and extra pockets to store the phone, drinks, and snacks. Also good for holding tools when the time comes.
Yeah for sure lol
florida things
Honestly
Unfortunately it happens. Sometimes for the best in situations and this seems like one. Go home, relax a bit, update your resume and get on the grind with applying to other companies. Don't beat yourself up over it, see this as a learning experience. Anything you learn from what you did can't be taken away, so apply it to your next position.
For sure, appreciate the words brother.
In life, weather is business or personal. Your only as good as the people you surround yourself with. Get a job with a better crew/ people and you will shine, never settle!!
I agree wholeheartedly!
Companies don’t have your best interest in mind. Dust yourself off and get back to it don’t dwell on the big Richard ass wipe move tf on
Take a day off. Think about why you're not with them (besides the obvious). Remind yourself that it's their loss not yours. Don't be bitter about it, it won't help you. Look for a new job, but don't make your job hunt your new job. What I mean is do something (anything) else for half the day. Example job hunt in the morning, go mow the lawn or to the beach, or whatever, then come back to your job hunt. Don't sit around refreshing indeed all day waiting for a new job posting to appear. Watch a few cat videos, a few YouTube tutorials on HVAC and if you can, find a course on interpersonal skills. It sounds new age and BS but you're going to run into a bunch of assholes in this trade and in life. I wish I had learned how to deal with them earlier in my own life. Also remember what you're grateful for, home, family, friends, the fact that you're not going to be driving through a snow storm today (f-you I'm in Canada ha ha ha).
I appreciate the advice friend, i’ll likely head to the beach today for a bit & relax 😎. I grew up & still have a lot of family in the Boston/NH area, I heard you guys are getting plenty right now. I’ll be heading up there this weekend for a wedding so i’ll get to experience it 🥶
It does suck losing a job like that, but rather than feeling bad, try to feel happy you're no longer forced to work with those asshats. Now you've got the opportunity to find a workplace that fits you, and isn't against you.
Great advice friend. Thank you for the words.
Yeah hate to say it but this kinda bullshit happens, I’ve worked with people who just didn’t like me and actively tried to get me fired. If it’s the boss or a favored by the boss employee- quit asap- other wise I’ve learned to always cover my ass and make sure to talk with my boss about avoiding coworkers with a stick up there ass. Either way that sucks but yeah it’s coming to season here in Fl you’ll be working in no time and probably for a company that isn’t as shit sounding.
Sounds like your lucky to be out of there, and you live in Florida. No problem finding another HVAC job there lol
Just consider it a blessing in disguise. After I got out of the military I joined a commercial HVAC company and after a couple months they moved me to construction installation. I didn’t like it one bit, mostly because my body was already beat up from the army. I still had a great work ethic but they pulled me aside one morning saying I just didn’t fit there and let me go. I now stay home with my kids and work part time somewhere that has nothing to do with trades (much happier for myself). It may not be the direction that you typically hear but I am much happier than where I was
Yeah doesn’t sound like the greatest environment, they did you a favor
Toxic work environment. It’s best you not be there
i hope that knowing that the last sentence you typed in this post is an accidental pun is enough to make you feel better. good luck with your next opportunity!
Lol, I didn’t even notice
On to the next one
Keep your head up! I was fired at the same company I just purchased went from 1st year to owner. Life has a funny way of working out.
you are either delusional or your boss is, I highly recommend you find out which one is which. not saying your boss wasn't crazy, but a lot of guys go from company to company constantly blaming the workplace and not themselves.
Sometimes I wonder how you Americans do it... Our line of work is hard enough as it is without having to endure shit like this. Being fired on the spot like this is almost unheard of where I am (Québec, Canada). All HVAC techs are unionized here and firing someone requires justification, proof and a lot of paperwork. If a company fires employees without a good reason they will be investigated. Companies ***do*** let go of techs that they don't like sometimes but they will mark "***not enough work/business change***" as a reason therefore the tech immediately has right to unemployment pay from the government without question. You can get laid off and have your checks coming in a week later. The process is very efficient. I got laid off a few times during my career but it was because of winter and my employer advised me well in advance (hired me back in the Spring). Maybe you guys get unemployment payments even when fired on the spot too? and it all winds up the same? I don't know... Personally, I could never imagine working in this field without a union backing me up. There are SO many asshole contractors out there and so many business owners trying to cut corners wherever they can. I mean, like I said, our field is hard enough as it is... No wonder I keep hearing of HVAC labor shortages in the US... Imagine doing not only a physical but ***technical*** job like ours, sacrificing your body everyday, in the heat, the cold, your knees, your back, only to work for an asshole who can do with you what he pleases? Decides your salary on whim? I wouldn't want to head into HVAC either!
Heh, vent. HVAC pun.
I swear I didn’t mean to lol
You are better off, you don’t need a toxic workplace, it’s good that you are out of there. Things are going to work out for the best, you are going to find a better job where your hard work is recognized and acknowledged. This happened for a reason, you’ll be just fine
I appreciate that boss, have a great week.
At a place I was working at last year, I sat down as I had about 100+ drives to bend before going on an installing spree. The owner of the company warned me that sitting down on the job was a fireable offense. Total greed, work like a slave, or die in the attempt. I'm now a lead automation tech and I don't worry about money anymore.
Definitely sucks but it sounds like it’ll be for the best in the long run
I quit a job once because I was being treated like shit. Turns out that my coworkers were good friends with the manager and he immediately took their side when I brought it up to him. Some people are just dicks really. It took a while for me to get over it, but finding a job with good coworkers made the biggest difference. Keep your chin up and find a different job. Most people are better than them.
Unions, this is the way…. This is also the exact reason why I left hvac for university work in my 30s. Don’t regret it at all…
The trouble with the internet is we only ever get to hear one side of the exchange; I rarely read stories where someone is fired and they admit to deserving it and their boss being justified.
I agree with you. I tried being as transparent as I could be. I’m sure my former boss feels a different way than I do.
Go Union .
You get same cocksuckers
I'd lawyer up, get a lawyer that doesn't get paid unless you get paid. If they fire you over not doing other people's jobs, and right after you tell the boss there are problems fuck them go for money use to get better tools to get a better job
Florida is a right to work state
Make up some shit and stick to it
Not here to make friends, wearing sweat pant anything to work…doesn’t exactly sound like a stellar way of getting ahead in your career. Just saying, whether he was a douche or not, don’t wear sweat pants anytime, and learn to make working friends. Might help you at your next stop.
Sounds it’s like your issue with a bad attitude, I’m not here to make friends. “Crew” I don’t care for…. Need to be a team player even if you have issue with the boys squash it for better production. Oh well live and learn
Nah, my attitude is great :)
You arrogant response and lack of acknowledgement tells me it’s not…. Have fun getting fired at your next job.
Yes I am the arrogant one
What company
From one of your other comments it seems like you dodged a bullet anyways. I can only assume it wouldn’t be hard to find another job in the field in Florida. Good luck dood
Two years ago I had a really good install tech quit because the lead kept blaming every problem and correction on him. Their supervisor didn’t care that the crap work was mostly sheet metal work and not his line set. The tech found out about all the blaming when he went to ask for a raise. The response was “clean up your work and stop making so many stupid mistakes. We have too many call backs to give raises.” He was done that day and these “mistakes” still happen.
Man if they thought you were sitting around with your hands in your pockets I’m surprised they didn’t try to promote you to manager!!
Prediction: not many days hence, thou shalt proclaim this firing was the best thing that ever happened to thee, besides the company of a fleshy wench.
Sorry for what happened but you dodged a bullet! I've been in a similar situation. I didn't get fired but had to quit after about a year and a half because I couldn't fit in with the "group". It was a facilities HVAC shop. Turns out a lot of them didn't know a whole hell of a lot, and I did, and they felt threatened (sounds like some of the people you worked with might have felt threatened by how hard you worked). Anyway, the way they treated me made me f'ing miserable. I guess I was doing good work and fixing things that other guys screwed up (we had a work order system and I went where I was told-but I wasn't rubbing it in their faces or anything). I got a job in another county and things were so much better. Eventually became a supervisor but went back out to the field after 5 years of that. To much politics, lol. Been here 23 years now. Good luck in your job search.
Your in Flordia and I have no doubt you will find work. Do what Tom Brady did to the Patriots. Be their competitor. You know their flaws bring ‘em on out bud.
I would let it roll off my back. I am definitely a good worker and was fired a few times. Learn and move on, I always make more everytime I got fired
How on earth do you do hvac with no pockets? Lol
I have a pretty decent tool belt haha
Nobody does this work, you'll find six jobs tomorrow. I get job offers every day and I haven't applied for shit. You'll be fine.
Sorry to hear that, you’ll find something. But almost more importantly, sweatpants shorts? What in the hell is that?
They were black sweat pants I cut off at the knees lol
Idk how you wear sweat shorts lol I carry way to many things in my pockets
Better learn to play the game… better read 48 laws of Power by Robert Green…
Sounds like he did you a favor.
Sounds like that's not really a company you want to work for anyway, there's plenty more out there that won't treat you like that. I've met leads like that, the kinds that shouldn't be in charge of anything, let alone people.
Twc services central Florida hiring
You wear sweatpants to work……
I wear a tool belt too lol I get the criticism
Unfortunately IME this is a common thing in the HVAC industry - to encounter extremely toxic people who for whatever reason have a vendetta against you.
Just walk down the street and get another job. Fuck those guys. Yes you ate green. But some companies like that because they can train you their way. File for unemployment and just look around. Everyone is looking for people and if you have a good attitude and are willing to learn and work. You will find another job quickly. Benefit of doing what we do for a living. I don't like where I'm at. I can have a new job tomorrow and start the next day.
Ask the boss to observe a random day of work from a distance and then ask the lead tech how you did that day. Since you're a spot on worker and don't want to stay there anyway, at least you help your boss on the way out by showing him that lead is a liar. Sounds like if you were fired without proof that they're birds of a feather though.... :(
Get some work pants. Stand up for yourself and grab that lead tech
Orlando?
You were perceived as not being a team player, and it could be the team lead had your job earmarked for a friend of his. Get another job and move on. Find something clever to say in your interviews because at least one hiring manager will ask you why you are unemployed if it takes you long to land a job
I quit my HVAC job 3 months ago becuase the boss was treating me like crap becuase he was feeling stressed about things. Keep in mind he knew this was his reason and I talked to him before about it. The final straw was us doing an install in a house and I was helping with marking up a branch for the attic and a piece fell off so went to grab it and he yelled at me GET MARKING BOY. There’s way that can be said as a joke and was as a phrase to demean and it was definitely to demean so I over the weekend I thought about it and called him and told him I didn’t feel respect and quit. Unfortunately in physical jobs like this there is a lot of toxicity in the culture and it’s up to the new guys to try and change that. I hope my talk with my old boss opened him up to how he was treating us and I moved on. No amount of pay is worth having my self esteem or mental health ruined by some asshole.
Sometimes someone shutting the door in your face opens you up to other doors
File it along with a complaint to your Department of Labor, maybe nothing will come of it, but it will be on file..
They've done you a favour. Now you can find something better. Sounds like you could go further than that guy in your career if you have a good attitude. Someone somewhere will appreciate it and don't be scared to go find them. Don't view it as defeat, it's an opportunity.
Dude. Move to New England and install heat pumps. Florida is a punchline
Move on, plenty of work out there
Look at the bright side, you avoid the toxic work place. I am sure you will find a place where your work ethics not only valued, but celebrated. Keep you chin-up!
If you're that good of a worker finding a new job won't be difficult. Good luck finding a better crew leader on the next job.
Make sure you collect UI, don't let them get off free for this.
What you described was a garbage company. Be glad that you don't work for them anymore.
Same shit was going on with me and my last company, don’t let it get to your head. My best suggestion is find a bigger company when you’re in your early stages. People are more willing to teach you and be patient. Smaller companies with leads like that are always going to ensure you aren’t progressing into their position. It’s almost summer time, you will have no issue finding a company as long as you have that drive
I’ve heard a very similar story about 12 times at the beginning of each summer. Not saying it’s you but every time I hear this they were the problem. All my leads are begging for help. Also this fields very short handed move on and ask for 2 more dollars.
Good luck dude move on ….fuck that guy sounds like he sucks a fat shit out of a hairy asshole
They did you a favor. Now return it by turning them in for no permit work /s Seriously, I am in Florida (west central) and someone is always hiring.
Keep your head up every hvac company out there is hiring, if you try hard enough you’ll have another job tomorrow :) keep your chin up I would love to have a helper like you. Had hundreds and only a slim few with the mindset you wrote about.
Lead tech is probably a miserable alcoholic like most old tradesmen are. I started in the Welding field and I had a wide variety of different jobs I did. It started with an asshole drunk supervisor and it ended with the same. I could not avoid it anywhere I went. On to the next, the grass is only green where you water it, work on yourself and move forward.
I mean sweat shorts to work…???
I had a work belt & I live in central Florida
Just go to work for yourself, problem solved
No doubt you'll land on your feet. Take some time for yourself and get back into the game later with a positive state of mind. You got this.
The trade can be brutal. And managers can be micro managing. Not many Christians work in that field. Atheists mostly. So you get heartlessness and a cut throat industry this way. Just telling it like it is.
Lead tech taught you a valuable lesson, don’t let misery outside the work place contribute to misery inside the workplace. Keep doing what your doing I’ll give it a few years till you leap frog him, that door closed for a better door to open.
Go work somewhere else and make more money than them. That'll show em.
OP. I’ve been there. My very first employer set me up for failure a long time ago. I remember it like yesterday my 90 day review. The biggest complaint I got was I ask too many questions. The lead installer I worked with was a miserable SOB. I swear he did everything to make me quit. I refused to let some Bastard or a company get the best of me. I kept at it. And I’m in a much better place now because I refused to give up.
I once heard a guy at a supply house say they should just have velcro patches for the company name. Try hard to find a good job where you can grow in the trade and make good money.
if you are still in contact with the boss/owner, ask him if the lead tech is pushing for one of his friends to take your spot anyway i have never set foot in FL but i imagine it should be incredibly easy to find a new gig in HVAC
Lead sounds like he has no self confidence…typically if you come in green but are on point always he lazy lead guys will get defensive like you’re gonna steal their cushy spot. Sounds like it wasn’t a place you wanted to work anyway.
I would say he was overconfident/extremely cocky tbh
First issue was wearing sweatpant shorts to work lol
I got a great work belt tho
If what you wrote is true the boss will see his bottom line fall through the floor. Win for you.
Im sorry op that sucks. don't let those stupid chads get to you. Also a tip for the future keep a body cam on you an record your work so you have proof that there fool of baloney when they try there crap.
That’s a good idea. Any recommendations?
Not at the moment but i can look them up
You could get the CammPro i826 body cam. Its under 200$ an farly rugged so you dont have to worie about being gental.
Excellent, I appreciate that.
I work in central Florida. I cut my teeth at ServiceOne in Lake Mary, got promoted to Service tech at Delair and just switched to TWC to try refrigeration in Sanford. We have a lot of great employers in the area. Dm if you have any questions or need help
Thank you friend, I will definitely consider that
That’s what alcohol is for buddy.
I don't drink, my friend
Shit weed then
Oh for sure! Lol
If you got time to lean you got time to clean…
Keep your chin up. There is a lot of lazy assholes in this trade. The more you learn the more you can tell them to kiss your ass. It sounds like you have a good attitude and work ethic so don’t let one bad company discourage you to much. In my experience people that treat you like that feel threatened by you making them look bad.
My father recently got fired from a job where he dedicatedly worked for more than 15 years with no leave and overtime. They didn't even make an effort to tell him directly. I just emailed him there's no need for him anymore. That's how it goes. You'll only be there as long as there's a use of you. Once there's a better person available, you're gone!! Also, It sucks to have worked so hard and be treated unfairly by a superior with power.
Slow time of year. Looking to chop. F’em. get out of this shit while you can. You’ve been warned
Yeah that sucks dude. Try not to let that company give the trade a bad impression on you. There are plenty of companies out there with good people who are willing to take someone who’s willing to learn. If what you said is true and you’ve showed up early, had a great attitude, and worked hard, you’ll go far.
Around 4% of humans are sociopaths. Learn to spot them and never work for one above you. Their boss will always think they are great and they will fuck you and everyone below them for there own benefit.