If there is anything I’ve learned while covering the HVAC and sheet metal industry, it’s that  contractors have an iron will.

If there is anything I’ve learned while covering the HVAC and sheet metal industry, it’s that  contractors have an iron will.

I’ve been with BNP Media, Snips’ parent company, for over 10 years. And in that time, I’ve covered everything from code changes to hiring and retaining workers, to political issues that impact everyday business for contractors. Currently, we are seeing the rapid pace in which green technology and building information modeling is changing the HVAC and sheet metal trade. Change is constant in this industry.

Since I’ve only been writing about the trade for 10 years, I think about the contractors who have seen the industry change over 30, 40 and 50 years. You don’t stay in business that long unless you can cope with constant change and the ability to deal with new challenges.

I believe the best contractors actually thrive on the change. That is why so many are involved in continuing education. They want to know what is coming around the bend. They enjoy seeing the way technology is making the industry more productive and efficient. And instead of running away from the change they embrace it.

I’ve heard it said many times by people in the industry that contractors are not very good about adapting to change. While I think there is some truth to that, I also think there is truth to the fact that the most successful contractors see the change and dive in. It’s those contractors that are going to see a profitable 2012 and beyond.

With 2012 in mind, I will be taking a break from this blog until then. It will be time to enjoy the holiday season and get some much needed rest. You should do the same. Big changes are bound to take place next year and I hope we will all be ready to tackle what comes our way.