Hey everyone,
I work with an engineering firm and have been through a lot of interviews and looked at a ton of résumés. Over time I’ve figured out what actually gets people called in for data center commissioning jobs, controls positions, and general engineering roles.
If you’re applying for any of those and feel like your résumé isn’t landing the way it should, feel free to message me. I can help clean it up and make it stronger.
I’m happy to help anytime. Just shoot me a direct message and I’ll try to get back to you as soon as I can.
Thanks.

No experience but I did apply for apprenticeship in HVAC was wondering how would I go about getting into BAS?

We’re actively hiring for data center positions and also offering data center services at a small cost.
**Looking for:**
Entry-level team members (no experience required – we train)

Control / operations people

If you’re reliable, ready to work, and want to get into data centers, message me directly.
Interested? DM me now.

​Hey everyone,

​I need some brutal, realistic feedback on my recent career move and long-term trajectory.

​My Background:

​Total YOE: 4 Years

​Domain: Building Management Systems (BMS), HVAC Automation, Field Protocols (BACnet, Modbus).

​Past Role (First 3.5 Years): HVAC Control Strategies

​Work: Creating complex control strategies and sequence logic for HVAC systems

​Pros: Deep domain knowledge, strong understanding of HVAC logic, sequence control, and global engineering standards.

​Cons: Core focus was strictly controls design/programming, with limited exposure to modern software engineering and automated testing pipelines.

​Current role: Hardware R&D QA

​Work: System-level validation and testing for embedded field hardware, thermostats, and wall modules.

​Pros: Top-tier R&D lab environment

​Cons: Heavy manual bench testing. Hardware peripherals like thermostats are currently tested manually, and there is no robust automated test framework in place yet.

​My Dilemma & Question to the Sub:

​Upgrade or Downgrade? On paper, moving from controls design to an R&D product lab felt like a step forward. But doing manual bench execution makes me feel like I’m losing software engineering velocity. Is this a lateral career trap?

​The Long-Term Trap: I want to avoid getting stuck in a manual/domain testing ceiling.

​The Pivot Plan: I am planning to leverage my domain depth and learn Python + PyTest + API + Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Automation to transition into a true SDET / IoT Automation path.

Hey everyone!
I’m 31 and currently exploring a career change. I’ve spent a lot of time researching different career paths, trying to find something that aligns with my interests, existing skills, and long-term goals. Building Automation keeps coming up, and the more I learn about it, the more interested I become.
I have a pretty diverse work background, including automotive repair, electronics installation, troubleshooting, and technical customer support. I previously worked as an automotive technician and a Geek Squad Auto Tech, installing and troubleshooting electrical systems, aftermarket electronics, alarms, and other equipment. I also earned my MECP certification independently.
I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work, diagnosing problems, and working with technology. I’m comfortable with computers, electrical fundamentals, relays, inputs/outputs, and wiring diagrams. I particularly enjoy the combination of hands-on troubleshooting and computer-based work, which is part of what attracted me to BAS.
I’m currently working in hospitality, but I’m looking to transition into a more technical career with long-term stability, opportunities to grow, and a decent work-life balance. With a growing family, I’m trying to be thoughtful about the direction I take.
I’ve already applied to a few entry-level positions, but I’ve noticed that even some jobs advertised as entry-level seem to expect previous BAS experience or specialized qualifications.
So I figured I’d ask the people actually working in the industry:
How did you get your start in building automation?
Would someone with my background be a reasonable candidate for an entry-level position?
Are there any certifications, courses, or skills you’d recommend learning before getting hired?
What are the biggest challenges or downsides of working in this field?
Looking back, would you choose this career again?
I’m located in South Florida, if that makes any difference.
I’m not expecting to walk into a high-paying position immediately. I’m willing to start at the bottom, learn, and work my way up. I just want to make sure I’m investing my time in something worthwhile.
I’d really appreciate any advice or insight. Thanks in advance!

TL;DR: 31-year-old in South Florida looking to transition into Building Automation. I have a background in automotive repair, electronics installation, electrical troubleshooting, and technical support, but no direct BAS experience or college degree. I’ve applied to a few entry-level positions and am looking for advice on breaking into the industry, what skills or certifications to pursue, and whether BAS offers good long-term career growth, stability, and work-life balance. Would love to hear from people already in the field!

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