INDEPENDENCE, Va. — The future need for qualified HVACR techs is outpacing the demand for other skilled trades. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for skilled HVACR technicians is projected to grow 13% from 2018 to 2028. While this is a big concern for the industry, the good news is that many school districts are seeking to help fill this gap by providing hands-on vocational learning for their students.

One such school district lies in Grayson County, Virginia, in the southwestern part of the state. A small community surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grayson County High School has an enrollment of 466 students. The school district provides a traditional academic curriculum and also offers a variety of project-based learning programs through its Career & Technical Education (CATE) Center.