At Thermosystems, our people are the heart of everything we do. It’s their dedication and commitment to expertise that drive innovation and exceptional service. ThermoTalks: Real People, Real Impact is our new employee spotlight series, where we share the stories of the individuals who bring the Thermosystems Way to life.
For the first installment of our series, we sat down with Alban Jusufi, one of our service apprentice technicians. At 23, driven by a longtime interest and inspired by friends who had served, Alban chose to join the military after earning his degree from community college. Serving in the Army Corps of Engineers, he trained and worked as an interior electrician. After his service, Alban built on his construction experience by enrolling in the Veterans in Piping program, launching his career in the HVAC industry.
Read on to discover how Alban’s passion and drive are shaping his journey, and what it takes to thrive in the trades.
Alban's Journey to HVAC
Alban’s passion for construction began while working alongside his uncle at his construction company. “It was my first exposure to the world of construction” he told us, “I learned a lot of good work habits like the importance of honest work and good customer service.” He carried these values into his role as an interior electrician in the Army, where he completed his military training and worked on numerous construction projects. After his service, he knew that he wanted to continue building a career in the trades.
“There’s so much involved in this trade,” Alban told us, “From the technology to the wide range of equipment.” That curiosity taught him to focus on details and build mental maps of how various equipment functioned. Through the 17-week Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program, Alban gained hands-on training in skills such as soldering, brazing, and applied math, while also gaining certifications like OSHA 30. The program didn’t just teach skills; it gave him a foundation to thrive as a technician.
After completing the VIP program, Alban joined Pipefitters Local 597 — a Chicago-area trade union of the United Association. As he gains field experience through their apprenticeship program, one lesson stands out to him: “Having a positive attitude and being willing to learn is essential,” he shared. “Overcoming challenges takes discipline, a skill I carried over from the military.” Along the way, he’s been supported by numerous mentors. “From my uncle to those I served with in the military, and even my VIP instructor— I’ve gained countless valuable skills from them all.”
Growing As an Apprentice
Alban shared that one of the most rewarding parts of his job is learning on the go, especially from the people around him. “There are many seasoned professionals on the Thermosystems team,” Alban shared. “The culture is very positive, and everyone is willing to help each other learn.” Even when facing challenges, Alban has stayed patient and determined, constantly pushing towards new possibilities. By setting small, daily goals like mastering a new tool or tackling a different type of system, he has been able to adapt to new environments.
Alban’s dedication to growth also influences how he serves customers and collaborates with the team. “Take care of the customer first,” he told us. “It’s important to build good habits, do the job right, and always be honest.” For those just entering the trades, Alban stressed the importance of relationships. “Building a positive rapport with those you work with is something everyone starting out should focus on.”
As HVAC technology continues to evolve, Alban sees patience as an essential skill for every technician. “Ask questions, double-check everything, and take challenges head-on,” he said. Alban’s journey reminds us that growth in the trades isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about showing up with the right attitude and learning from those around you.
We’re proud to have Alban on the Thermosystems service team. Thank you for your service, your discipline, and your dedication to excellence.
At Thermosystems, our success starts with our people. That’s why we prioritize their growth and development. Want to be part of our team? Check out our Careers page to see open positions.
