How to Start, Scale, and Stand Out in HVAC: Jason Walker’s Playbook for Modern Home Services

Ever wonder what it takes to go from technician to owner in one of the most competitive HVAC markets in the country? Or how some businesses launch as one person in a truck and quickly look like multi-million dollar operations? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, hosts Jennifer Bagley and Chuck Staszkiewicz sit down with Jason Walker—industry trainer, business builder, and a master of the HVAC “hustle”—for a blueprint that every owner, manager, or tech should hear before the busy season hits.

Jason pulls back the curtain on his first year launching Royalty Heating & Air in Sacramento, CA, a market saturated with $100M+ powerhouses, and explains the mindset, marketing moves, and mission-driven strategies that helped his small business punch well above its weight from day one. Whether you’re in the van, at the counter, or planning your next shop meeting, this episode’s for anyone determined to build a home services company that lasts.

Why You Should Listen

Jason doesn’t just talk theory, he’s walked the walk. From door-knocking to high-tech installs, from launching a brand with purpose to building a team that loves coming to work, Jason’s story is proof that innovation, grit, and caring for your people (and your community) is the real “shortcut” to sustainable growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. How “Acting Big” Wins in a Crowded Market
   Launching solo in a big market? Jason breaks down how to build the systems, set the brand, and present your company as the local giant, even before you have the volume. Get practical tips for CRMs, websites, truck wraps, and the importance of matching every single detail.
2. The Power of Guerrilla Marketing (and Why Nobody’s “Above” the Basics)
   Think you’re past door-knocking or neighborhood canvassing? Think again. Jason shares his formula for flooding neighborhoods with yard signs, sandwich boards, strategic vehicle fleets, and genuine face-to-face connections that turn “one install” into a domino effect of new business.
3. Why Core Values Aren’t Just Wall Art
   Do your people actually know your mission statement? Jason explains how foundational values, vision boards, and bottom-up buy-in drive a culture where employees stay, thrive, and tell their friends; plus, creative ways to keep these values top of mind (and even reward your team for it).
4. Building a Brand That Gives Back
   From monthly care packages for newborns in need to annual HVAC giveaways for foster families, learn how Jason’s nonprofit, inspired by personal tragedy, not only serves the community but builds trust, loyalty, and meaning into his business far beyond the job ticket.
5. Summer Readiness: Team, Training, and Avoiding Burnout
   Don’t let busy season break your team or your process. Jason and Chuck share why continuous training matters, even during summer madness. Plus, tactics for team incentives, celebratory culture, and the simple but powerful act of bringing lunch to your installs.
6. Process, Feedback, and Scaling Smarter
   Find out why process matters just as much as hustle, and how to build systems for process management, regular team surveys, and real-time feedback that keep your business growing the right way.

The “Art” of Installation Jason turns every install into a showpiece, complete with LED lighting, bubble wrap finishing, and a customer wow moment. Discover how craft, presentation, and genuine pride in your work help command higher prices and create happy raving fans.