Building Confidence Through HVAC Training: A Q&A with National Trainer Matt Gordon
Whether you're a manufacturer's representative, distributor, contractor, architect, or other HVAC professional, understanding The Unico System is key to delivering successful projects and an exceptional customer experience. From product knowledge and system design to installation best practices and troubleshooting, the right HVAC training helps professionals work with confidence.
We sat down with Matt Gordon, National Trainer at Unico, Inc., to discuss why training matters, what attendees can expect from our program, and how professionals across the HVAC industry can continue building their expertise.
Meet Matt Gordon, National Trainer
What Is Your Role at Unico?
Matt: As National Trainer, my role is to educate representatives, distributors, contractors, and other HVAC professionals on The Unico System product line. Depending on the audience, training may focus on product knowledge, system design, installation best practices, applications, or troubleshooting. My goal is to ensure everyone who works with The Unico System has the knowledge and confidence to be successful.
Why Proper HVAC Training Makes a Difference
Why Is HVAC Training Important?
Matt: Proper training benefits everyone involved. Representatives who understand the product can confidently present its advantages to architects, builders, and homeowners. Distributors are better equipped to support their customers, contractors gain confidence during installation, and technicians can diagnose and service systems more efficiently. When everyone understands how the system is designed to perform, projects run more smoothly and customers have a better experience.
HVAC Training Options at The Unico System
What Training Opportunities Are Available?
Matt: We offer several training options designed to fit different learning styles and schedules. Professionals can attend our two- or two-and-a-half-day Factory Training in Arnold, Missouri, participate in field training hosted throughout the country, join live virtual training sessions, or complete self-paced courses through Unico University. Whether you're looking for a broad understanding of the system or training tailored to your role, we have an option for you.
Factory Training: What to Expect
What Can Attendees Expect During Factory Training?
Matt: Factory Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning. On the first day, attendees learn about The Unico System products, installation guidelines, applications, and system fundamentals. The second day is entirely hands-on, allowing participants to apply what they learned by working directly with the equipment. On the final day, we cover Chiltrix and zoning through a combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises. By the end of the program, attendees leave with the confidence to better support, sell, design, install, or service The Unico System.
Benefits of Hands-On HVAC Training
Why Is Hands-On Training Better Than Manuals or Videos?
Matt: The biggest difference is the hands-on experience. Reading manuals and watching videos are valuable, but people retain information much better when they physically work with the equipment. Factory Training provides a controlled environment where attendees can ask questions, practice techniques, and receive guidance from experienced instructors. We also utilize the VARK learning model, which has been shown to improve how people retain and apply information.
Field Training for HVAC Professionals
How Does Field Training Help?
Matt: Field training provides many of the same core concepts while focusing on the needs of a particular audience, application, or project. Depending on the training, attendees may receive classroom instruction, hands-on experience, or both. It's a great way for professionals to build their knowledge without traveling to our factory.
Learn at Your Own Pace with Unico University
What Is Unico University?
Matt: Unico University is our online learning platform. Nearly everything we teach during Factory Training is available through online lectures or video courses. It's a valuable resource for onboarding new employees, reinforcing previous training, or helping experienced professionals refresh their knowledge. Since people naturally forget information over time, revisiting the material through Unico University helps improve long-term retention.
Common Challenges New Installers Face
What Are the Most Common Misconceptions Before Training?
Matt: One of the biggest challenges is understanding how small-duct, high-velocity airflow works. Professionals who are unfamiliar with SDHV systems sometimes struggle to understand air movement, which can lead to systems that don't perform as intended. Training helps eliminate those misconceptions before they become costly mistakes.
What Professionals Say After Training
What Feedback Do You Hear Most Often?
Matt: The hands-on portion consistently receives the highest praise. Whether someone is a representative, distributor, or contractor, attendees often tell us it's one of the best training experiences they've had because it gives them the confidence to apply what they've learned.
Recommended Training Path for New Professionals
Where Should Someone New to The Unico System Start?
Matt: Every professional has different goals, so there isn't one path that fits everyone. I always recommend starting with lecture-based training, whether that's through a live virtual class or Factory Training. From there, the next step depends on your role and experience. If you're looking for the most complete understanding of The Unico System, Factory Training offers the best combination of classroom education and hands-on learning.
Continue Your HVAC Education with The Unico System
The best HVAC systems are supported by knowledgeable professionals. Whether you're introducing The Unico System to customers, designing projects, supporting distributors, or installing systems in the field, the right training gives you the confidence to succeed.
The Unico System offers factory training, field training, live virtual classes, and Unico University to help HVAC professionals continue learning throughout their careers.
To learn more about upcoming training opportunities, visit our Unico University page or contact Matt Gordon at [email protected].
