Why Educate? Why Certify? Because the Work Matters
Why Educate? Why Certify? Because the Work Matters
Ryan Ward
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There are countless ways to grow in this industry—but with so many options, it can be hard to know which path is worth your time. Over the years, I’ve learned that growth isn’t a single skill mastered or a title earned. Instead, it’s the result of many small steps: learning something new, taking on a challenge, and building confidence over time. I’ve seen people who seemed out of place in this demanding trade stick with it and become exceptional at what they do. I’ve also watched unexpected talent emerge from the most unlikely places. And through it all, one thing has become clear: The people who keep learning, who actively pursue education and growth, are the ones who go the furthest.
The people who keep learning , who actively pursue education and growth, are the ones who go the furthest.
My own career has taken me from apprentice to manager, and I can still remember the exact moment I realized how much more I had to learn. It was about six years ago. A few co-workers and I traveled to Maine for an open house at Jøtul. I sat in a class on gas appliances, thinking I already knew the material—until the instructor broke down the difference between thermocouples and thermopiles. I’d been doing service work for years, but the concepts were suddenly clicking in a new way. I took notes quietly, determined to soak up everything I could. I still reference those notes today when training new techs. That experience changed my mindset completely. From that point on, I committed to pursuing certifications and signing up for as many technical classes as possible. Since then, I’ve earned several certifications and attended more classes than I can count—and I’m still learning.
It’s easy to dismiss certification in an industry that doesn’t require it, but that’s what makes it even more valuable. Certification isn’t about checking a box—it’s about investing in yourself. I have a shirt from Copperfield Academy that says, “Because knowledge is power,” and I’ve had clients comment on it more than once. It’s a simple truth: when you invest in your growth, the payoff comes in unexpected ways. One of the most rewarding things I’ve seen is how technicians carry themselves differently after becoming certified. Their posture changes. Their communication improves. Their confidence grows. It’s not just about passing a test—it’s about becoming the kind of professional who’s equipped to do the job right.
It’s easy to dismiss certification in an industry that doesn’t require it, but that’s what makes it even more valuable.
I recently interviewed a few co-workers after they completed their certification process, and a few key takeaways stood out. First, even though the material felt familiar going in, being tested on it helped them internalize the information. They can now explain technical details more clearly and confidently to customers—especially when troubleshooting fireplace or chimney issues in the field.
Next, we’ve seen a real shift in our company culture. A large employee survey across multiple industries found that career growth ranked higher than compensation when it came to workplace satisfaction—and I believe it. Our culture wasn’t bad before, but once we started prioritizing education, something changed. Professionalism became part of our identity. And let’s be honest: Professionalism isn’t something contractors are always known for. But education and certification raise the standard. I’ve never left an industry class feeling less professional. If anything, those experiences elevate your mindset—and that shows in the work you do.
Once we started prioritizing education, something changed. Professionalism became part of our identity.
Finally—and maybe most importantly—education matters because of the responsibility we carry. We light fires inside people’s homes on purpose. That’s not a job you can fake your way through. Just because our industry doesn’t require a license doesn’t mean we should take the work any less seriously. Staying current with best practices, safety standards, and system design isn’t optional—it’s how we protect the homes, families, and communities we serve.
So if you’re someone who already prioritizes education—cheers to you. And if you’re someone who thinks you’ve learned all there is to know—think again. There’s always more to learn. The first step is recognizing what you don’t know. Thankfully, our industry is full of generous people who are willing to share what they’ve learned. Take the class. Show up to the seminar. Sign up for that certification. When you invest in your growth, you raise the standard for everyone around you.
Why educate?
Why certify?
Because the work we do matters—and we owe it to ourselves and our customers to keep getting better.
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Ryan Ward
Ryan Ward is the second-generation owner of Plymouth Fireplace & Energy Solutions, Inc.
