EP260 Live From AHR 2026: Tools, Tactics, and Trade Stories From the Show Floor (February 2026)

Quotes from the episode:

"If you're not measuring, you're just arguing with opinions."

"The tools got better, but what really changed is the technician mindset."

"We used to diagnose systems one reading at a time. Now we see the whole story live."

Recorded live at 9:00 a.m. on Day 1 of the AHR Expo 2026 in Las Vegas, this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast captures the spirit of the industry in real time. Bill and Eric kick things off reflecting on their decades of AHR attendance, the miles walked, vendors visited, and friendships built along the way. They're joined on the floor by Chris Fabre and Dave Cornette of Hughes Mechanical in Zachary, Louisiana, who share perspectives from the commercial service and construction sides of the trade.

The conversation dives into how contractor learning has evolved, from early podcast forums and Facebook groups to today's hyper-connected social media ecosystem. Chris and Dave talk candidly about being called in to fix improperly installed systems, how that forced growth sharpened their diagnostic skills, and why measurement tools have become indispensable. From airflow testing to wireless probes, they reflect on how modern instrumentation has transformed troubleshooting from guesswork into data-driven decision making.

They also touch on highlights from the HVAC Tactical Awards, industry legends like John Pastorello, and the growing role of apps, workflows, and integrated digital tools in technician performance. The episode wraps with a discussion around contractor accountability, Better HVAC's mission, and how directories and verified credentials can help homeowners find professionals committed to continuous learning, ethical work, and measured results.

Chris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fabre-2a2b5933/

Their business: http://www.hughesmechanical.net/

This episode was recorded in February 2026.