Eagle Pipe Heating & Air, a locally owned HVAC and plumbing contractor serving Kitsap and Jefferson counties, has donated and installed a complete HVAC system at Community Works, a hands-on trades training program for teens and young adults based at Short's Family Farm in Chimacum, Washington. The project, completed on April 21 in partnership with ServiceTitan's Power the Nation initiative, transforms a previously unusable concrete barn into a year-round training facility.
Community Works offers civic engagement and technical training for students from area schools, with programs centered on boat making, tiny house construction, and other skilled trades disciplines. The converted barn had been unusable during colder months, limiting training opportunities. The new system, including an energy-efficient thermostat operable by program staff, ensures students can train comfortably throughout the year.
"This is where we could really make a difference - not only financially, but by spending time with this organization and with their folks," said Lori Tschohl, owner of Eagle Pipe Heating & Air. The donation was made possible through contributions from Thermal Supply and Daikin, which helped offset equipment costs.
The project reflects Eagle Pipe's commitment to workforce development. Tschohl, who also serves as president of the Jefferson County Builders Association, has participated in trade schools and vocational programs across the region to introduce young people—particularly those aged 16 and 17—to career opportunities in HVAC and plumbing. "We take technicians with us and say, 'These are gauges. These are our tools. This is what we do,' hoping to generate interest so that by the time they leave, they don't have to think, 'Am I going to college? What am I going to do?'" Tschohl said.
The Community Works project also connects to a wider network of community involvement. Students previously built pantries and other items donated to Dove House, a local women's shelter, where Eagle Pipe had also installed an HVAC system. Through the Power the Nation initiative, Eagle Pipe broadened its charitable giving, with check presentations expected to meaningfully exceed prior donation amounts.
Beyond promoting trades careers, Tschohl highlights the role of technology in modern HVAC operations—including AI-powered tools available through ServiceTitan's platform. "It's not just turning a wrench or learning about refrigerants. It's about what's up and coming," Tschohl said. "This industry right now is in the absolute best position to not only utilize AI, but explore the future."
This donation underscores the importance of trades training in addressing skilled labor shortages and providing career pathways for young people. By enabling year-round operation, the HVAC system directly impacts the program's ability to train the next generation of tradespeople in Jefferson County.
