GTCC’s HVACR program helps land Michael Bullard a career keeping the stars cool

“I felt well-prepared for real-world HVAC work when I left GTCC. The program gave me a strong foundation,” said Bullard.

Michael Bullard knew when he graduated from Northeast High School, he wanted to work in the HVAC business. He didn’t realize, though, that the career could take him to the bright lights of Broadway productions and sold-out concerts.

Bullard’s job these days is ensuring a cool environment for performers and patrons at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Greensboro, N.C., thanks to his love for HVAC work, a solid education at GTCC, and a supportive employer.

The 25-year-old Browns Summit native graduated from Guilford Apprenticeship Partners and GTCC in 2022 with an associate degree and a journeyman certificate in HVAC. He then transitioned from apprentice to service technician with Brady. Bullard brought a strong background in HVAC with him to GTCC after taking HVAC I and II at Weaver Academy during high school.

“That experience made me want to continue pursuing HVAC after graduation,” Bullard said.

He knew when he finished at GTCC, he was ready for the real world.

“I felt well-prepared for real-world HVAC work when I left GTCC. The program gave me a strong foundation,” said Bullard. “While in school, I was also working with Brady which gave me hands-on experience with commercial equipment. Since most of my training at GTCC was focused on residential equipment, having the opportunity to work with Brady, through an apprenticeship, allowed me to also gain valuable commercial experience. That experience helped build my confidence and made the transition into the field smoother after graduation.”

Bullard had been working at Brady for five years when he spotted an intriguing internal notice about a job opening with the company. They needed someone to fill a full-time position at the Tanger Center, home to renowned Broadway productions and high-level concerts each year.

“While I enjoyed working with different customers, I knew it would be a great opportunity to be dedicated to one customer and really get to know their equipment,” said Bullard. “During the transition from the previous facilities technician, I was part of a rotating team that helped fill in, and I really enjoyed working with the team at Tanger. I fit in well.”

Management at Brady Services never had any doubts about Bullard’s ability to handle such a high-profile customer.

“Michael’s journey is a great example of how education and hands-on experience come together to build a successful career in HVAC,” said Chad Brown, triad area service manager for Brady. “His dedication and technical expertise make him an invaluable part of our team at Brady, and his role at the Tanger Center showcases his ability to manage high-profile environments with professionalism and skill.”

Bullard admits there may be a little more stress working at the Tanger Center than other commercial HVAC customers, but the challenge makes the job more enjoyable.

“There is some extra pressure working for a performing arts center like the Tanger Center,” said Bullard. “With different shows coming in, I have to collaborate with various groups to ensure that both the performers and patrons are comfortable. Each performance has unique requirements, so it's important to stay on top of everything to keep operations running smoothly and meet everyone’s expectations.”

For more information on GTCC’s Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology program, visit gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/air-conditioning-heating-refrigeration-technology.php.