Currently enrolled in school for HVAC, but have 1 question.

If you have a criminal record (non-violent crime), can you realistically get a job in the HVAC industry? I've been turned away all sorts of jobs for this reason. Wal Mart, Lowe's, Blockbuster, Grocery stores, etc. You name it, always the same response. Will i run into this same roadblock in this industry as well?

DJ in Goose Creek, South Carolina said: If you have a criminal record (non-violent crime), can you realistically get a job in the HVAC industry? I've been turned away all sorts of jobs for this reason. Wal Mart, Lowe's, Blockbuster, Grocery stores, etc. You name it, always the same response. Will i run into this same roadblock in this industry as well?

most small and average size companies dont check, but bigger ones definetly check.

A criminal record will usually hold you back from residential and banks . Sometimes certain commercial clients . You should allways expect lower wages compared to non charged people . You messed up but have to live with your life decisions. If I found out a excriminal was entering my dwelling I wouldn't use the company no matter how good they were.

DJ in Goose Creek, South Carolina said: If you have a criminal record (non-violent crime), can you realistically get a job in the HVAC industry? I've been turned away all sorts of jobs for this reason. Wal Mart, Lowe's, Blockbuster, Grocery stores, etc. You name it, always the same response. Will i run into this same roadblock in this industry as well?

I think you have to be honest and find a company that will work with you. One of my classmates had a charge of possessing narcotics and a firearm in his vehicle. Does that sound scary to you? He told the truth to the employment office and they connected him with a company where he explained the actual petty nature of the charges and they hired him. He has been there three years running... Not every company will be receptive, but many people DO have good family members that ran afoul of the law, and will be more understanding of a criminal record. Good luck

Think about your parents...They probably grew up with the local law informent and hell probably got drunk together. I know times have changed but if your looking for a job with an agency they will check. Otherwise do whatever it takes.