A recent story from the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA) highlights an inspiring shift in the skilled trades. For the first time, an all-female team from CITA’s HVAC pathway earned the chance to compete at the SkillsUSA State Leadership & Skills Conference. Their achievement reflects a much bigger movement taking place across the country: more young women are stepping confidently into trades like HVAC, welding, and construction, and they’re excelling.
Some of these students already hold their EPA Section 608 Universal Certification and continue to outperform expectations in a field traditionally dominated by men. Their success shows that talent and dedication have no gender and that opportunities in the trades are wider and more inclusive than ever.
At South Florida Academy, we see stories like this as an important reminder that the trades thrive when they welcome diverse perspectives and skills. Women bring strength, precision, problem-solving, and leadership to HVAC and every other technical field. As the industry grows, especially with rising demand driven by data centers, infrastructure projects, and technology, creating space for more women is not only the right thing to do, it’s essential for the future workforce.
We’re proud to support anyone who wants to build a hands-on, meaningful career. The path is open, and examples like the CITA team make it even easier for others to see themselves succeeding in this work.
If you’re curious about opportunities in HVAC or other skilled trades, you’re welcome to explore training options and learn more at SFAAC.com.

