Architecture & Construction

Matt Torrence

HVACR Technician

High school: L.C. Bird High School ('05), Chesterfield Technical Center

Career & Technical Ed. Program Studied: HVAC

Additional Studies/Training: Apprenticeship

This National Skills USA Gold-Medal Champion is Ready to Compete in the Workplace, Too

Matt Torrence began his HVACR [heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration] studies in 11th grade at Chesterfield Technical Center. Like many students in that setting, he was able to earn the industry-required CFC [chlorofluorocarbon] certification in the process.

But in 11th grade, he also began entering Skills USA competitions—and that’s what soon set him apart in the HVAC field.

“In 11th grade, I made it to nationals in SkillsUSA, and placed 11th in the nation. In 12th grade, I finished first in regional, state, and national HVACR competitions….In the competition there were 10 different stations of various types of equipment, like ice machines, food coolers, and a residential split system. You had to follow the proper steps and safety procedures on each one.”

During his 12th grade year, he was already on the job—proving that his high school HVAC studies we’re truly preparing him for a career. In fact, ask him what the benefits of those junior- and senior-year studies were, and he says, “everything. You learn the proper procedures, the functions of equipment, plus you get certified for your CFC card. You get all kinds of benefits and it’s all hands-on.”