If you’ve lived through a New Hampshire winter, you already understand something the rest of the country sometimes forgets: when temperatures drop, reliable heat is not a luxury. It is safety, comfort, and continuity for families, schools, and businesses.
That’s why the propane and HVAC trades remain a strong career path nationwide—and why local companies like Proulx Oil & Propane continue investing in the people who keep our communities running.
The skilled trades are growing, and HVAC is leading the way
Across the U.S., demand for trained heating and service professionals continues to rise. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8% job growth for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than average.
For anyone considering a hands-on career (or looking for a better long-term fit in the trades), that outlook matters. Growth typically means more openings, better mobility, and an industry that rewards skill, licensing, and strong work habits.
Propane is not just a fuel—it’s an essential service
Propane work is unique because it combines technical skill with a public-facing responsibility: you are providing an essential service people depend on daily, especially in winter.
The propane industry needs professionals in many roles—service technicians, delivery drivers, customer support, and operations—and it continues building training pipelines to attract and retain talent.
In short: the industry is not standing still. It is actively developing career pathways and modern training to bring the next generation into the field.
Training and safety standards are evolving for the better
One of the strongest signals that propane is a “career industry” is how much emphasis is placed on structured training and safety culture.
Starting in 2025, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) began transitioning to the PERC Education Program (PEP), which is designed to modernize and standardize propane workforce education and replace the long-running CETP framework over time.
For technicians and drivers, this is good news. It means clearer development paths, stronger fundamentals, and an industry-wide commitment to doing the job the right way—every time.
Why a local, family-owned company is a different kind of workplace
Big brands can promise “scale.” Local companies deliver something else: relationships, accountability, and pride of workmanship.
At Proulx, being family-owned and locally rooted isn’t a slogan—it shapes daily decisions:
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Customers are neighbors. You see the same streets, towns, and households year after year.
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Your work is visible. When a system is running safely, you helped make that happen.
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Service is personal. You’re not a ticket number in a queue; you’re part of a team people recognize and trust.
And in a region like ours—where winter conditions can change quickly—local knowledge matters. You know the roads, the terrain, and the real-world needs of homes and businesses in New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts.
What makes propane/HVAC careers appealing right now
If you’re weighing career options (or you’re already a technician looking for a better fit), the appeal of this work is straightforward:
1) Work that matters
Keeping heat on, hot water flowing, and systems operating safely is meaningful, especially during winter.
2) A clear skills ladder
In this field, your skills—and your reputation—compound over time. The more you learn, the more valuable you become.
3) Long-term stability
People will always need heat, maintenance, safe installations, and dependable service. The national outlook for HVAC roles supports that stability.
4) Pride and professionalism
For many technicians, the best part of the job is simple: doing it right, solving problems, and being trusted.
Industry pride is real—and it’s earned
The propane industry talks a lot about reliability because it has to live up to it. Whether you’re delivering fuel, servicing equipment, responding to a no-heat call, or helping a customer understand their system, this work demands professionalism.
That’s also why we view recruiting as more than “filling a position.” It’s about building a team with the skills—and mindset—to represent our company well and serve our communities safely.
Considering a career move?
If you’re an experienced HVAC or fuel technician—or someone who takes pride in hands-on work and wants a stable, respected trade—this is a strong time to explore opportunities in the propane and HVAC service field.
At Proulx Oil & Propane, we’re proud of our longevity, our local roots, and the role we play in keeping our region comfortable through every season. If you’re looking for a team where your work is valued and your reputation matters, we’d like to connect.
