Alexandria, VA (October 16, 2025) — What would happen if the heating and air conditioning in American homes and businesses just....stopped?
With 40,000+ job openings for HVACR technicians and installers projected per year over the next decade, this is a future that could become reality. The HVACR industry is facing a critical workforce shortage that is only expected to get worse without hiring and training qualified workers.
To combat these workforce issues, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) is taking a unique step to drive interest in the skilled trades by fostering interest at a young age.
For National Book Month, ACCA is promoting The Air Came to a Stop, a children’s book initiative designed to drive interest in the skilled trades for the nation’s youngest readers.
The book, available in both English and Spanish, is targeted at ages 4 through 10 and highlights what happens when an HVACR system stops working in a school. Throughout the story, children realize what a critical role HVAC technicians play in helping to keep them safe.
“Workforce development is ACCA’s top legislative priority, and that begins with engaging students long before they enter the job market,” said Kate Wessels, vice president of communications, marketing, and partnerships. “By encouraging families and schools to read The Air Came to a Stop during National Book Month, we’re making a powerful connection between the joy of reading and the opportunities available in HVACR careers.”
ACCA has long championed policies that address workforce shortages in the skilled trades. Through advocacy on Capitol Hill, partnerships with educators, and hands-on training resources for contractors, ACCA is driving solutions that prepare today’s workers and attract tomorrow’s talent. National Book Month is an opportunity to reinforce this mission by blending literacy with workforce awareness.
As the national voice for HVACR contractors, ACCA remains committed to elevating the standards of excellence in the industry, ensuring a strong pipeline of qualified professionals, and inspiring the workforce of the future.
ACCA is organizing book readings in elementary schools and libraries. Please contact Kate Wessels, VP of communications, marketing, and partnerships at kate.wessels@acca.org for more information on book readings, to get one scheduled in your area, or to receive a review copy of the book.