At Atlas Butler, we believe in investing in the next generation of professionals ready to roll up their sleeves and explore the hands-on world of HVAC and plumbing. Each summer, our Ride TO Decide program gives high school students across Central Ohio the opportunity to gain real-world experience and discover if a career in the skilled trades is right for them.
This June, we proudly welcomed six interns into the 2025 program. Selected from dozens of applicants representing 77 local high schools, each intern spent three weeks shadowing HVAC technicians, HVAC installers, and plumbers, learning by doing and gaining mentorship from the pros.
“Ride TO Decide is an annual program where we select six interns from dozens of applicants,” said Steven L., Atlas Butler Service Mentor. “Throughout June, these students shadow an HVAC service technician, a lead installer, and a plumber. It helps them figure out if a future in the trades is right for them.”
Why Ride TO Decide?
The Ride TO Decide program isn’t just an internship. It’s a hands-on opportunity for students considering a future in the skilled trades. Over three weeks, participants gain hands-on experience by working side-by-side with Atlas Butler’s seasoned HVAC and plumbing professionals. This real-world exposure allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom, while developing technical skills they can take into any career.
But the benefits go beyond tools and training. The program builds confidence, fosters professional habits and helps students see what a trade career can offer. Whether they learn how to speak with customers, troubleshoot systems, or show up ready to learn each day, students walk away with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a dependable teammate and skilled professional.
Most importantly, Ride TO Decide helps students determine whether a trade career is the right fit for them, without pressure, and with plenty of support. They leave with clarity, connections and a strong foundation for whatever path they choose next.
What our 2025 students learned
Q: What are three things you learned from this internship?
Austin B.: “I learned how to communicate with the customers properly and make them feel more comfortable about the work we're doing. I learned how to install equipment, service it, and how to ground capacitors to prevent myself from getting shocked.”
Nate S.: “I learned how to properly cut sheet metal and S Locks to build a transition for installing an A/C unit. I learned about safely collecting old refrigerant in a way that won't harm the environment, and I also learned on the surface side of HVAC how to ensure everything is running well.”
Q: What did you like most about the program?
Jesus G.: “Everyone has a positive attitude and is ready to work. I liked how this company embraces everyone and makes you feel included at every step.”
Max A.: “My favorite part of this program was seeing how the professionals do everything. They do it so efficiently.”
Isaiah S.: “The Ride TO Decide program was really fun. What I enjoyed most was learning about the behind-the-scenes. As a regular person, you don't typically know how they install an HVAC system or how they check out and maintain their A/C unit. It was cool to see behind the stage to learn a lot about these different systems.”
Q: Why Atlas Butler?
Jesus G.: “I wanted to learn something new over the summer, and Atlas Butler’s Ride TO Decide program caught my eye.”
Chris W.: “I wanted to apply to Atlas Butler because it is family-owned, it was very personal during the interviews, and everyone was very nice and kind.”
What Our Mentors Have to Say
Q: What’s your favorite part about being a mentor?
Alex C., Trainer & Plumbing Mentor: “It’s exciting for me to present an opportunity to these kids to learn, grow and get a better start in the trade than I did. I was kind of thrown into it, and this gives them a better starting point.”
Phil E., HVAC Install Mentor: “I get to help these kids decide their future. They get taught the correct way because if you teach somebody the right way the first time, then it's pretty hard for them to fail in the future.”
Chris B., HVAC Service Mentor: “My favorite part about being a mentor is the different personalities you come across. You get to meet the young kids and find out what they like to do. And, you find out about them personally. This program is great for people who like to meet others.”
Interested in learning more?
Visit our website for information about the Ride TO Decide program and how to apply. Applications will be accepted starting in January 2026.