In this special episode from the 2025 AHR Expo, Bryan brings us two fascinating conversations with industry leaders who are shaping the future of HVAC technology and tools. The episode kicks off with Tony Gonzalez from Fieldpiece celebrating their 35th anniversary. Tony shares his remarkable journey from packaging meters in the warehouse to his current leadership role, providing unique insights into the company's evolution. The discussion explores Fieldpiece's pioneering role in developing HVAC-specific testing equipment, particularly highlighting their groundbreaking HS26 meter that filled a crucial gap in the industry when no other company was creating specialized meters for HVAC technicians. The conversation with Tony delves deep into the technical aspects of modern HVAC work, particularly focusing on combustion analysis and its three fundamental pillars: safety, efficiency, and consistency. Tony explains how Fieldpiece's JobLink system has revolutionized the way technicians document their work and communicate with customers through comprehensive digital reporting. The discussion also covers the evolution of refrigerants and POE oils, emphasizing how practices that weren't considered critical in the past have become essential with modern systems and materials. In the second segment, Bryan sits down with Mike and Ashley from Refrigeration Technologies' Viper division, where they share the compelling origin story of their company. Mike recounts how his father, John Pastorello, a chemist who found himself taking an AC technician job in the 1980s, leveraged his chemistry background to develop superior products, starting with their flagship product, Big Blu. The conversation highlights Refrigeration Technologies' impressive growth, including their recent expansion to a campus-like facility with an additional 30,000 square feet and their achievement of making the Inc. 5000 list for three consecutive years. Ashley, their Director of Education and Brand Management, discusses their innovative approach to industry engagement, including their first-ever "Viper Bowl" competition and their commitment to safety in product development. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Fieldpiece's 35-year journey and the evolution of HVAC-specific testing equipmentModern combustion analysis fundamentals and the importance of proper testingThe JobLink system and its impact on documentation and customer communicationEvolution of refrigerants, POE oils, and critical installation practicesRefrigeration Technologies' origin story and growth from a family business to an industry leaderDevelopment and innovation of essential HVAC chemicals and tools under the Viper brandThe importance of safety in product formulation and applicationGlobal expansion and market reach in the HVAC industryImpact of modern technology on HVAC diagnostics and documentationTraining approaches and industry education initiativesCompany cultures focused on innovation and problem-solvingThe role of family businesses in advancing HVAC technology Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android
