Operation HVAC

$1,000
1 winner$1,000
Awarded
Application Deadline
Apr 26, 2025
Winners Announced
May 26, 2025
Education Level
High School, Undergraduate

ETS recognizes the unique skills and discipline that veterans bring to the workforce, including perseverance, dedication, and discipline. 

Unfortunately, there are also financial challenges that can come with transitioning to civilian life and pursuing further education after a career in the military. After their great bravery and sacrifice, veterans should have all the support they need to fulfill their dreams and pursue their ambitions. Investing in their education and training can express gratitude to veterans and empower them to achieve their career goals and contribute to their field with their expertise and dedication.

This scholarship was created to address the growing need for skilled HVAC technicians in the industry and to honor the service and dedication of military veterans and their families by supporting their pursuit of a career in HVAC. 

Any high school or undergraduate student who is pursuing the trades may apply for this scholarship opportunity, but those who are pursuing HVAC and applicants who are veterans or the children or spouses of veterans are preferred.

To apply, tell us about your service or your family member’s service and how this has impacted you. Additionally, tell us what the military has taught you, how you think this will improve your work, and how you hope to make a difference for others.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published August 27, 2024
Essay Topic

Reflecting on your military service, or the service of a close family member, describe how this experience has shaped your values, work ethic, and sense of purpose. How have these qualities influenced your decision to pursue a career in the trades? 


Discuss the specific skills and lessons you have gained from your military background (or family member’s service) that you believe will be valuable in your work. 


How do you envision making a difference in the lives of others, particularly within the veteran community or underserved populations?

400–600 words

Winning Application

Julian Avila
Ramona High SchoolIrving, TX
My father's military service has probably been one of the most defining influences in my life: shaping values, work ethic, and sense of purpose. Growing up with a father in the military surrounded me with discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to others. Qualities instilled in me at such a young age became quite the guide on my path while attempting to make a career in the trades, specifically HVAC. Watching my dad serve taught me the value of hard work and responsibility. He approached every challenge, no matter how dire the circumstances, out of a sense of duty and pride. That lesson has followed me in how I tackle my job today. Whether it is troubleshooting some complex HVAC system or mentoring some new team members, I embrace the same level of dedication and determination that my dad exhibited in his service. His ability to adapt, lead, and solve problems in high-pressure situations has become a blueprint for how I navigate challenges in my career. One of the most valuable lessons that I learned from my dad's service is attention to detail and the ability to keep one's cool when under pressure. These are critical qualities in the HVAC field. It is important that a system works safely and efficiently, which requires precision and focus, especially when dealing with intricate parts or urgent repairs. My father was in the military, and he taught me that sometimes a small detail is a very important principle I bring to every project. Another lesson that has remained with me is teamwork. My father spoke about camaraderie with members of the same service; he stressed that together, working for one cause, an outcome of high order could be achieved. That has helped in shaping my interaction with colleagues and clients to date. I try to inspire collaboration and clear communication to deliver quality results when I'm leading a project or supporting any team effort. Beyond the skills and work ethic I’ve gained, my father’s service has given me a deep sense of purpose. His commitment to serving others has inspired me to use my own abilities to make a difference, particularly within the veteran community and underserved populations. HVAC is more than just a career for me—it’s a way to improve people’s quality of life. From providing heating for a family during winter to helping businesses maintain a comfortable and healthy environment, my job allows me to make tangible, positive differences in other people's lives. Moving forward, I want to make a greater impact on the veteran community. That is why I will offer my services at a reduced rate or pro bono to these veterans in need, knowing that most of them face specific challenges while readjusting to civilian life. In addition, I want to be able to give guidance to those veterans interested in the trade so that they can gain the skills and know-how needed for success. Military service defined my father, and his service has defined me: the values I live by, the work I do, and my purpose. Continuing this work in my career is the best way I know to carry on his legacy and create a positive impact in other people's lives.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 26, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 26, 2025.