As a former medic in the Army for nine years, transitioning to civilian life was both daunting and uncertain for Sean Kane. "I tried to get out of the Army one time after my first contract in 2017," Sean recalls. "But I was still young, only 22, and didn’t really have a plan. It’s kind of scary getting out, especially when that’s all you know. The only civilian job I felt qualified for was being an EMT, but the prospect of making $14 an hour while holding people’s lives in my hands just didn’t seem worth it." This hesitation led Sean to re-enlist, delaying his transition for another contract.
When Sean finally decided to leave the Army for good, he was introduced to the Career Skills Program (CSP), a new initiative aimed at helping service members transition into civilian careers. While exploring his options at Fort Liberty, Sean discovered the Trade Warrior Program offered by RightTek HVAC. Despite having no mechanical experience—only ever working with people—Sean took a chance and enrolled.
"The program was incredible," Sean says. "It was relaxed yet fast-paced, and the environment was welcoming, with everyone on a first-name basis. I made lasting friendships and learned the basics thoroughly, which gave me a solid foundation for my new career." This supportive atmosphere is a hallmark of RightTek HVAC, where the focus is not just on teaching technical skills but also on building a community that empowers veterans to succeed.
RightTek HVAC’s approach to training is unique. They don’t just teach students how to perform specific tasks; they teach them how to think critically and solve problems. Sean found this particularly valuable when he started working with Quality Refrigeration Concepts (QRC) shortly after completing the program. Although the hands-on experience he gained in the program was geared more towards residential HVAC systems, the fundamental knowledge and problem-solving skills he acquired allowed him to excel in a commercial setting. "Even though it was very different from what was covered in the program, the knowledge base was still there to excel," Sean explains.
A year ago, Sean transitioned to a position with Walmart, working on industrial refrigeration systems in their Super Centers. "It’s a huge responsibility, managing equipment worth millions," he says, reflecting on the scale of his new role. "But I owe it all to the training I received from RightTek HVAC. The program truly changed my life, giving me the skills and confidence to succeed in an entirely new field."
RightTek HVAC’s commitment to its students doesn’t end with graduation. The program offers ongoing support, from job placement assistance to continuous mentorship, ensuring that graduates have the resources they need to thrive in their new careers. This level of dedication is something Sean deeply appreciates. "They’re committed to your success, whether it’s finding the right job or helping you adjust if things don’t work out as planned."
Looking back, Sean is proud of how far he’s come and grateful for the opportunities RightTek HVAC provided. "The program really gave me the safety net I needed during a critical transition period in my life," he reflects. "And it’s not just about the job skills—they help you build confidence in your ability to succeed on the outside, in a field you might never have considered before."
Sean’s story is a testament to the transformative power of RightTek HVAC’s training programs. For veterans and transitioning soldiers like Sean, who may not have a clear path forward after leaving the service, RightTek HVAC offers not just education, but a new beginning. "It changed my life forever, straight up," Sean says. And as he continues to excel in his career, the impact of RightTek HVAC’s training and support remains a cornerstone of his success.
— Sean Kane, Former Army Medic and HVAC Technician at Walmart