10/16/2026
This picture made me stop and think...
In fact, it stayed on my mind for several nights.
How many kids today have ever had to hold the flashlight while Mom or Dad worked on something?
I remember those days. Holding the flashlight, handing over tools, watching, learning, and occasionally getting an earful because the light wasn't pointed in the right direction!
At the time, we probably didn't realize just how much we were learning.
We learned patience. We learned responsibility. We learned how to solve problems, how to use tools, and most importantly, how rewarding it feels to accomplish something with our own two hands.
Somewhere along the way, I think we've lost a little of that experience.
Parents, we have an incredible opportunity to change that.
Teach your children how to mow the lawn. Let them take responsibility for it and experience the pride of a job well done.
When their bicycle chain breaks, don't immediately replace the bicycle. Help them find the tools, learn how the chain works, and make the repair themselves.
Let them get dirty. Let them make mistakes. Let them ask questions and figure things out.
And when they accomplish something, make sure they know you're proud of them.
These might seem like little things, but they're teaching lessons that can last a lifetime.
Work ethic. Discipline. Confidence. Respect. Responsibility.
And something we sometimes forget to teach: Work can actually be FUN!
I've spent my career in the HVAC industry, and I still love what I do. There is an incredible satisfaction in walking into a facility with a problem, figuring out what's wrong, and getting everything working again.
I want our younger generation to have the opportunity to experience that same pride.
Whether it's HVAC, electrical, plumbing, welding, machining, construction, automotive repair, or any other skilled trade, these careers matter tremendously.
They keep our communities operating, our factories producing, and our country moving forward.
They can provide financial independence, rewarding careers, and opportunities to build businesses and create jobs for others.
A college degree is a wonderful achievement, but it isn't the only road to success.
Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover what they're good at and what makes them excited to get out of bed in the morning.
And I want to do my part.
I would gladly volunteer my time to visit your classroom, speak with your students, attend career fairs, or welcome young people and educators into our facility to see firsthand what the HVAC industry is all about.
I would love to show them the technology, the opportunities, the challenges, and the incredible people who make this industry what it is.
And to my fellow business owners and tradespeople, I encourage you to do the same.
Let's stop waiting for the next generation to discover the trades. Let's introduce them to the trades ourselves.
To the parents, give your kids opportunities to work with their hands today, not tomorrow.
To the educators, help them see that success comes in many forms and the trades are among the most rewarding careers available.
To the younger generation, never underestimate what you can accomplish when you're willing to learn, work hard, and take pride in what you do.
We all have a responsibility to help create opportunities for those coming behind us.
Maybe the next great technician, electrician, welder, business owner, or inventor is simply a kid who hasn't been handed a wrench yet.
So put the phones down for a while.
Hand them a flashlight, even chew their butts when they aren't holding it right!
Teach them something.
And watch what happens.
I think we will all be amazed.
Bruce Whipple
President, GRIPS Inc.
