Director of HVAC School

UHP (Unlock Human Potential)UHP is a veteran-focused education and leadership development organization based on an 800-acre campus in Northwest Arkansas. Through immersive, high-impact programs, we develop service members and veterans into leaders—equipped with the skills, mindset, and purpose to thrive in their next chapter.Our approach is built on four core pillars: Think. Train. Feel. Lead.We integrate human performance, leadership development, and real-world skill building to prepare individuals for meaningful, long-term careers.Director of HVAC SchoolThe OpportunityAs UHP launches Ignite America Trade Schools—a modernized approach to skilled trades education—this is a rare opportunity to build and lead a modern HVAC training program from the ground up. The Director of HVAC School will serve as the founding leader, responsible for designing, developing, and scaling the HVAC education program within Ignite America Trade Schools. This individual will help shape curriculum, training environments, instructor development, employer partnerships, and student outcomes while helping to redefine how HVAC education is delivered.This is not a traditional academic administrator role. We are seeking a builder, operator, educator, and leader who understands both the technical side of HVAC and the importance of developing people. The ideal candidate brings deep HVAC industry experience along with the ability to build systems, lead instructors, create immersive hands-on learning environments, and align training with real-world workforce needs.This is a fully onsite leadership role based in Gentry, Arkansas.What You’ll DoProgram Leadership & DevelopmentLead the design, development, and execution of the HVAC training programBuild scalable curriculum aligned with workforce and industry demandsDevelop immersive hands-on training experiences across residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC systemsEnsure curriculum aligns with applicable industry standards, licensing requirements, EPA guidelines, and NCCER frameworksContinuously improve program quality, effectiveness, and student outcomesInstruction & TrainingSupport and oversee classroom, lab, and field instructionEnsure students receive practical, real-world HVAC troubleshooting and systems experienceIntegrate diagnostics, controls, refrigeration systems, airflow, preventive maintenance, and safety into training deliveryHelp establish modern learning environments utilizing simulation, technology, and hands-on applicationInstructor LeadershipRecruit, develop, mentor, and evaluate HVAC instructorsEstablish instructional standards and classroom expectationsFoster a high-performance culture focused on accountability, professionalism, and student developmentSupport instructor growth and ongoing technical developmentIndustry & Workforce AlignmentBuild relationships with employers, contractors, and industry partnersEnsure training aligns with workforce expectations and hiring needsAssist in developing apprenticeship, placement, and workforce pipeline opportunitiesHelp position Ignite America as a leading HVAC workforce development programOperational LeadershipSupport planning and development of HVAC labs, equipment, and training environmentsAssist in equipment procurement and program infrastructure decisionsMaintain safety, compliance, and operational standards across all HVAC training areasCollaborate cross-functionally with leadership, operations, and program teamsWhat You’ll BringRequired Experience7+ years of HVAC industry experienceExperience in HVAC training, instruction, workforce development, or apprenticeship leadershipStrong understanding of residential and commercial HVAC systemsExperience with diagnostics, controls, refrigeration systems, and preventive maintenanceExperience leading teams, instructors, or technical personnelStrong operational and organizational leadership abilitiesAbility to build programs, systems, and processes from the ground upPreferred ExperienceEPA 608 CertificationNATE Certification or equivalent industry credentialsExperience building or scaling technical training programsNCCER experience or familiarityExperience developing curriculum or instructional programsMilitary or veteran community experience is a plusWhat Success Looks LikeBuilding a respected, workforce-aligned HVAC programDeveloping highly capable instructors and studentsCreating immersive, hands-on training experiencesEstablishing strong employer and industry relationshipsHelping scale Ignite America into a nationally recognized skilled trades education platformWhy This Role Is DifferentThis is an opportunity to help build something meaningful from the ground floor. You will help shape the future of HVAC education within a mission-driven organization focused on leadership, performance, and workforce development. This role combines skilled trades education, leadership development, workforce impact, program building, operational leadership, and mission-driven work. We are looking for individuals who want to build, lead, and leave a lasting impact.Why UHPThis is an opportunity to help build and shape the future of Human Performance education within a mission-driven organization focused on impact, leadership, and transformation. The Head of Curriculum will play a critical role in ensuring UHP’s educational experiences are scientifically credible, operationally scalable, and capable of preparing individuals to perform and lead in demanding real-world environments. You will help develop programs that directly impact the lives of veterans, students, coaches, and future leaders while helping establish a new standard for immersive performance education.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive compensation package401(k)Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time offProfessional development supportAccess to UHP performance and recovery facilitiesWhy UHPBelong to something, Believe in something, Strive for something.Work alongside a team committed to excellence, growth, and purposeDirect impact on the lives of service members and veteransWork in a unique, high-performance campus environment