Eagle Pipe Heating & Air, a locally owned HVAC and plumbing contractor serving Kitsap and Jefferson Counties in Washington, has donated and installed a complete HVAC system at Community Works, a hands-on trades training program for teens and young adults based at Short's Family Farm in Chimacum. The project, completed on April 21 in partnership with ServiceTitan's Power the Nation initiative, addresses a critical need for the program, which operates out of a converted barn that had become unusable during colder months.
Community Works offers civic engagement and technical training for students from area schools, with programs focused on boat making, tiny house construction, and other skilled trades disciplines. The new HVAC system, which includes an energy-efficient thermostat operable by program staff, enables students to train throughout the year in a comfortable and safe setting. 'This is where we could really make a difference — not only financially, but by spending time with this organization and with their folks,' said Lori Tschohl, owner of Eagle Pipe Heating & Air.
The donation was supported by contributions from Thermal Supply and Daikin, which helped offset equipment costs. The project reflects Eagle Pipe's ongoing commitment to workforce development. Tschohl, who also serves as president of the Jefferson County Builders Association, has participated in trade schools and vocational programs across the region to introduce young people — particularly those aged 16 and 17 — to career opportunities in HVAC and plumbing. 'We take technicians with us and say, “These are gauges. These are our tools. This is what we do,” hoping to generate interest so that by the time they leave, they don't have to think, “Am I going to college? What am I going to do?”' Tschohl said.
The Community Works project connects to a wider network of community involvement. Students in the program have previously built pantries and other items donated to Dove House, a local women's shelter — an organization where Eagle Pipe Heating & Air had also previously installed an HVAC system. Through the Power the Nation initiative, Eagle Pipe was able to broaden the scope of its charitable giving, with check presentations to partner organizations expected to meaningfully exceed prior donation amounts.
Beyond promoting trades careers, Tschohl has highlighted the role technology plays in modern HVAC operations — including AI-powered tools available through ServiceTitan's platform — to illustrate the industry's relevance and career potential to younger audiences. 'It's not just turning a wrench or learning about refrigerants. It's about what's up and coming,' Tschohl said. 'This industry right now is in the absolute best position to not only utilize AI, but explore the future.'
For business and technology leaders, this story underscores the growing intersection of skilled trades and advanced technology. As AI and digital tools transform industries like HVAC, companies that invest in workforce development and community partnerships can help bridge the skills gap while showcasing the evolving nature of trade careers. The donation also demonstrates how corporate initiatives like ServiceTitan's Power the Nation can amplify local impact, providing a model for other businesses seeking to support vocational training and address labor shortages.
