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 converted barn into a usable training space year-round.
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 program operates out of a concrete barn that had previously become unusable during colder months. The donated HVAC system, which includes an energy-efficient thermostat, now enables students to train throughout the year in a comfortable and safe setting.
“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 in part through contributions from Thermal Supply and Daikin, whose support helped offset equipment costs.
The project reflects Eagle Pipe's ongoing 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 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?'” she said.
Community Works also connects to a wider network of community involvement. Students have previously built pantries and other items donated to Dove House, a local women's shelter – an organization where Eagle Pipe had also previously installed an HVAC system. Through the Power the Nation initiative, Eagle Pipe was able to broaden its charitable giving, with check presentations expected to meaningfully exceed prior donation amounts.
Beyond promoting trades careers, Tschohl highlighted the role technology plays in modern HVAC operations – including AI-powered tools available through ServiceTitan's platform – to illustrate the industry's relevance. “It's not just turning a wrench or learning about refrigerants. It's about what's up and coming,” she said. “This industry right now is in the absolute best position to not only utilize AI, but explore the future.”
The project underscores the importance of community partnerships in addressing workforce gaps and providing young people with tangible skills. By equipping Community Works with a functional HVAC system, Eagle Pipe Heating & Air has ensured that trades training can continue regardless of weather, directly impacting the lives of students in Jefferson County.
