“The process doesn’t fail. The technician fails to follow the process.”

– Dirk Nauman

In this inspiring episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Dirk Nauman—HVAC trainer, simulator inventor, and founder of Visual 3D Academy. Dirk shares his personal transformation from a nervous first-time trainer to an industry innovator dedicated to improving HVAC education through simulation and visualization. He discusses how necessity drove him to create his first HVAC simulator from scrap components, eventually evolving it into a line of compact training tools now used in schools, prisons, and technical programs across North America.

Dirk also introduces the Visual 3D Academy platform, a 3D-based learning system designed to immerse students in HVAC theory like never before. From diagnosing faults to exploring animated equipment cutaways, learners can access both physical simulators and virtual models. He emphasizes the importance of foundational understanding and how his mission includes supporting returning citizens and changing lives through education.

This episode is packed with insights on building training tools from scratch, applying theory in meaningful ways, and using technology to close the skills gap in HVAC. Whether you’re a contractor, educator, or technician, Dirk’s story will energize your approach to learning—and teaching—the trade.

Dirk’’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-nauman/

Visual 3D Academy website: https://www.visual3dacademy.com/

HVAC Simulator Website: https://hvacsimulator.com/

Dirk’s Technician vs. Mechanic video: https://vimeo.com/1057050226

Dirk’s email address: dirk@hvacsimulator.com

The book he mentions (By Daniel W. Bixby): Product Training for the Technical Expert: https://a.co/d/0lmP00o

This episode was recorded in May 2025.