There’s no shortage of HVAC coaching programs out there, but which ones actually move the needle?
We dug into a lively Facebook thread where HVAC business owners shared their real-world experience with coaching programs, peer groups, and whether it’s even worth paying for advice in the first place.
The goal? Find out what programs are helping contractors grow from $500K to $2M and beyond, and which ones may not be worth your time (or money).
Here’s what we found in the comments:
- Some swear by EGIA, Service Nation, or Nexstar for structured systems and community accountability
- Others say peer groups and self-education beat high-ticket gurus any day
- Many emphasized: rebates, ROI, and fit for your stage of business matter more than the brand name
- And yes, not every coaching experience is a good one (several folks had strong opinions)
Whether you’re a solo operator or have a small team ready to scale, these insights can help you avoid costly missteps, and choose the right support for your growth stage.
Coaching Groups That Get Mentioned Again and Again
When it comes to HVAC coaching, a few names kept popping up over and over — and not just because of flashy marketing. These programs earned respect from contractors in the trenches who’ve seen real business growth.
Nexstar Network
This one came highly recommended, but not just for its coaching.
Nexstar blends peer groups, community, and a powerful business network. For many, that’s where the real value lies: learning from others on the same path, not just the coach assigned to you.
🌐 Website: https://www.nexstarnetwork.com/
EGIA / Contractor University
If you’re past the $1M mark and ready to get serious about growth and profitability, EGIA is a top pick. Several contractors mentioned their monthly coaching calls as a game changer.
What sets them apart? Big-name coaches like Weldon Long, Drew Cameron, and Gary Elekes, plus a deep well of training, systems, and accountability.
🌐 Website: https://mycontractoruniversity.com/
Service Nation Alliance
Looking for structure, systems, and a coaching team that scales with you? Service Nation Alliance (SNA) came highly recommended, especially for businesses from $500K to multi-millions.
SNA’s combination of group coaching, peer-led boards, and financial transparency makes it a top choice for business owners serious about scaling, and staying profitable.
🌐 Website: https://servicenation.com/
Service MVP
Want to sharpen your team’s sales skills? Service MVP, led by Joe Crisara, is all about communication, mindset, and converting more of the leads you already have.
While often recommended for companies already doing $1M+, they also offer courses for smaller companies or individual techs looking to improve, making it a flexible, long-term investment.
🌐 Website: https://servicemvp.com/
Mixed Reviews: Programs That Work… Until They Don’t?
Some coaching programs show promise early on… but don’t always deliver long-term results. Others might work for certain business models or personalities, but not for everyone. Here’s what contractors had to say about a few of the more hit-or-miss options.
CertainPath (formerly Success Group International)
CertainPath still has loyal users, especially those who find the rebate program offsets the cost — but others feel the value has declined over time. If you’re in the early stages, it might be worth checking out. Just know the experience may vary based on your assigned coach.
🌐 Website: https://mycertainpath.com/
Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO)
Not HVAC-specific, but EO brings together business owners from all industries for peer mentoring, strategic insight, and personal growth. It’s less about systems and more about mindset, leadership, and community — which can be powerful depending on where you’re at in your journey.
🌐 Website: https://eonetwork.org/
Blue Collar Success Group
This one was briefly mentioned, without detailed commentary, but it’s still worth a look. Founded by Kenny Chapman, the Blue Collar Success Group focuses on technician performance, communication skills, and culture building. If you’re searching for an alternative to the mainstream coaching groups, this could be a refreshing change of pace.
🌐 Website: https://www.thebluecollarsuccessgroup.com/
Solo Operators & Peer Groups Say… Maybe You Don’t Need a Coach at All
Not everyone believes in dropping thousands on a business coach. In fact, several HVAC pros chimed in to say that what truly helped them grow wasn’t a formal program, it was community, accountability, and knowing their numbers.
Skip the Coach, Find a Peer Group
One of the most recommended alternatives? ACCA Mixed Groups, curated peer groups organized by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. They match up contractors at similar revenue levels from different regions, so you can get honest feedback and share real numbers without competing locally.
🌐 Website: https://www.acca.org/members/mix
Numbers First, Coaching Later
Other commenters emphasized that before spending big on coaching, you need to get your internal numbers dialed in:
Several business owners pointed out that a lot of the coaching content is already available online — the real challenge is execution. That’s where accountability groups, weekly check-ins, or even a mentor relationship can often do more than a paid coach.
Implementation Over Information
“The suggestion that you can get the information needed on the internet is correct. What you need a coach for is the accountability, to be sure you’re implementing the concepts.”
— Jim Hinshaw
Whether you join a peer group, connect with local business owners, or just stay consistent with your own tracking systems, the consensus here is clear: coaching without action is just expensive advice.
Before You Join, Questions to Ask Yourself First
With all the options on the table, from powerhouse coaching networks to peer-driven advisory groups, the right move isn’t always about what’s “best.” It’s about what’s best for your business, right now.
Before you write a check or schedule a discovery call, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
What are you actually looking for?
- Do you need accountability to help you implement what you already know?
- Are you craving strategy and structure to grow beyond your current ceiling?
- Or are you looking for community and peer feedback from those walking the same path?
Where’s your business today?
- Are you doing $250K with one tech? $1M with a full install crew?
- Your revenue, team size, and role in the business (in-field vs. in-office) should shape what kind of support makes sense.
How do you learn best?
- Do you thrive in structured systems, courses, and step-by-step playbooks?
- Or do you prefer open dialogue, peer support, and real-time problem-solving?
What’s your budget and what return are you expecting?
- Some programs come with rebates that offset cost (like CertainPath or Service Nation)
- Others are more expensive upfront but may help you improve close rates or margins
- No matter the price tag — will you actually use what you’re paying for?
Pro Tip:
“It’s not about the system. It’s about implementing the system.”
— Jim Hinshaw
At the end of the day, the best coaching group won’t build your business for you but the right one will push you to do the work, stay consistent, and grow with intention.
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All
Whether you go with EGIA, Service Nation, or fly solo with a trusted peer group, the “best” HVAC coaching program is the one that matches your current stage, business goals, and personal leadership style.
Do your homework. Talk to real users. Look for results, not just a slick pitch deck.
And above all, remember: No coach or course will replace your hustle, your processes, or your follow-through.
