2026 HVACR Skills Competition
Future HVAC leaders were put to the test during CMPX 2026’s HVAC Skills Competition. From March 25–27, students and industry hopefuls installed heating and refrigeration systems in a competition designed to showcase their talents and advance their careers.
“It’s exciting,” said Mehtab Singh, a competitor from George Brown College. “We have no idea what we’re going to be doing here. All we can do is prepare and figure it out as we go.”
Covering the field
The 2026 HVAC Skills Competition ran across all three days of CMPX. Day one saw high school students setting up a furnace and replacing a gas valve, while day two challenged post-secondary competitors to install a tankless water heater. Both groups were also tasked with participating in a mock job interview.
Day three shifted focus to refrigeration systems and heat pumps, with winners from this portion advancing to the national level.
Numerous competitors placed in the top three of their category, earning cash prizes relative to their finish. Congratulations to the following:
Post Secondary (Heating)
1st Micah Ridler – Conestoga
2nd Matthew Wall – George Brown
3rd Matthew Lynch – George Brown
Post Secondary (Refrigeration)
1st Mehtab Singh – George Brown
2nd Andrea Marinelli – George Brown
3rd Matthew Ham – Conestoga
Secondary (Heating)
1st Rachael Richards – College Ave SS
2nd Tyler Kovcas – College Ave SS
3rd Evan Boggerd – College Ave SS
4th Connor Macgregor – College Ave SS
More than a spotlight
While the 2026 HVAC Skills Competition offered cash prizes and future opportunities, organizers emphasize that the real value lies in the experience itself.
“It’s all about the experience; that’s what we really stress to program advisors and college leads,” said Brad Mavin, HVAC specialist and event volunteer. “We don’t care if they win, and a lot of the students coming here know they probably won’t. That’s not the point. Every one of our judges and volunteers is from the industry, and most are employers. When a student puts themselves out there, it makes a difference. It shows initiative, a willingness to make mistakes, and the confidence to try, and that stands out on a resume.”
The HVAC Skills Competition is made possible by industry volunteers who dedicate their time, experience, and guidance to participants. For many who come from teaching roles, however, judging presents a unique challenge.
“It’s really difficult for me because I teach at the college, where I’m used to stepping in and helping all the time,” said judge Buddy Pemberton. “It’s a very fine line. As a teacher, you’d normally give more in-depth guidance, but here it’s more like giving the Coles Notes.”
HRAI thanks all competitors who participated, as well as the volunteers who made the event a success, including:
Brad Mavin
Jeff Fata
Bob McKeraghan
Nancy McKeraghan
Mark Parliament
Victor Ferreira
Larry Smith
Craig Easterbrook
Jim Wood
Buddy Pemberton
Bruce Munro
Dave Cushing
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