IN THE SPOTLIGHT: AIR CONDITIONING APPLIED TECHNOLOGY

Paul Creacy

Program Representative: Paul T. Creacy

Department Chair and Instructor of Building Trades/Program Coordinator
Department of Air Conditioning, Aviation & Automotive

Q: How are advancements in technology and platforms changing how your area delivers services or instruction?

A: Technology has changed both how we teach and how our students learn. While our program remains rooted in hands-on training, today’s students also have access to course materials, instructional videos, assignments and communication through Canvas. This allows them to review concepts before coming into the lab and reinforce what they learned afterward. At the same time, the HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) industry continues to evolve with digital controls, smart building systems and advanced diagnostic equipment. Our goal is to expose students to the technology they will encounter in the field while maintaining the hands-on experience that employers expect.

Q: What is the most impactful innovation you’ve implemented, and what problem did it solve?

A: One of the biggest improvements has been creating a consistent digital learning environment for every section of our courses. Students have one location for announcements, assignments, instructional resources and communication with faculty. This provides greater consistency between instructors while allowing students to easily find the information they need. It also gives faculty the ability to quickly update instructional materials as industry standards, building codes and equipment continue to evolve. The result is a more organized learning experience that better supports both students and instructors.

Q: How has this innovation improved student success?

A: Students are more successful when they have access to resources beyond the classroom. By providing course materials, videos and assignments online, they can review difficult topics as often as needed and arrive in the lab better prepared. Faculty are also able to communicate more effectively and provide timely feedback throughout the semester. This combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training and accessible digital resources helps students stay engaged, build confidence and develop the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in the HVAC industry.

Q: How has technology helped you build or strengthen partnerships with employers, schools, or other organizations, and how do these connections support the region’s workforce and economic growth?

A: Technology has made collaboration easier with our advisory committee members, local school districts and industry partners. Through virtual meetings, online document sharing and digital communication, we can gather feedback, review curriculum and respond more quickly to workforce needs. These partnerships help ensure our programs reflect current industry practices and prepare students with the skills employers are seeking. We also work closely with the college’s Continuing Education Department and area high schools to expand access to skilled trades education, helping build a stronger pipeline of qualified technicians to support the Coastal Bend's workforce and economic growth.

Q: Looking ahead, what advancements do you foresee impacting your area, and what new skills will DMC graduates need?

A: The HVAC industry continues to evolve with smart building technology, energy-efficient equipment, building automation systems and more sophisticated diagnostic tools. While the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration remain the same, technicians must be comfortable working with digital controls, electronic troubleshooting and connected systems. Employers are also looking for graduates with strong communication, problem-solving and customer service skills. Our responsibility is to prepare students not only for today’s technology but also to adapt as the industry continues to change throughout their careers.

Q: If talking to a prospective student, what are the top benefits or opportunities you’d highlight about your program or service?

A: The Air Conditioning Applied Technology Program offers excellent career opportunities with competitive wages, strong job security and a wide variety of career paths. Our students receive hands-on training from experienced faculty using equipment similar to what they will encounter in the field. Graduates can enter the workforce quickly, continue their education through stackable credentials and degree programs or eventually pursue opportunities in supervision, sales or business ownership. Whether you are starting your first career or looking to change careers, the HVAC industry provides a stable profession where skilled technicians are consistently in demand.