Top 25 Most Influential HVACR Educators & Trainers of 2026

A few weeks ago, HVAC Excellence and TruTech Tools asked the HVACR community to help spotlight the industry’s most impactful instructors. The response was overwhelming. Thousands of nominations poured in, each one a testament to the incredible influence these educators have on students, apprentices, technicians, and the future of our workforce.

• Wayne Blackwell, Pickens Technical Center
• Patrick Butler, Professor Butler (TikTok)
• Leon Charnetski, CMHE, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
• Brynn Cooksey, Sr. *, CEM, CMS, HVACU, LLC
• Nichole Curl, Chadwell University
• Patrick Finley, Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
• Jim Fultz*, Copeland/White-Rodgers
• Aaron Gibson, Rheem Canada
• David Harrell, HTPG
• Ed Janowiak, ACCA
• Justin Kidwell, Daikin Comfort Technologies
• Rick Kincell, Coburns Supply
• Joseph Kloke, CMHE, Waubonsee Community College
• Matthew Lemaster, University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College
• Marc Lopez, Friedrich Corporation
• Jennifer Manzo, HVA-Chicks Coalition
• Crystal Naegle, UA Local 525
• Christopher Peterson, UA Local 44
• Scott Sharrett, Fieldpiece
• Ivan Smith, Intellitec College
• Aaron Tevebaugh, Johnstone Supply
• Kati Theurer, CSME, Jefferson College
• Brandon Thomas, UA Local 598
• Bobby Tyner, Central Carolina Technical College
• Dave Whitten*, UA Local 26

(*Previous honorees)

Celebrating Excellence in Education

These individuals represent the very best of HVACR instruction. They are content creators, curriculum leaders, educators, trainers, and technical mentors who devote their expertise to strengthening programs and preparing a work-ready, future-focused workforce.

Their contributions are shaping training labs, elevating standards, reducing skill gaps, and inspiring countless students to pursue meaningful, high-demand careers.

We also extend our gratitude to all nominees, whose dedication continues to transform the industry every single day.

A Special Recognition

As a token of appreciation, each honoree’s name will be printed on the back of a commemorative 2026 conference t-shirt, courtesy of TruTech Tools. These shirts will be distributed to attendees of the 2026 National HVACR Education Conference being held March 22–25, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Join Us in Celebrating These Leaders!

Please take a moment to congratulate the educators and trainers who go above and beyond, those who create opportunity, inspire growth, and keep our industry moving forward.

Congratulations to all and thank you for making a lasting impact on the HVACR community!