Faculty Spotlight – Ethan Hafford

We are excited to spotlight Ethan Hafford, an instructor at Washington County Community College, who has been teaching in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) program for nearly two years. With 14 years of industry experience, Ethan brings real-world knowledge, technical expertise, and a passion for hands-on learning into the classroom.

 

A Day in Ethan’s Role 

Ethan’s favorite part of teaching is seeing the moment when a concept “clicks” for his students, when they successfully diagnose and fix a problem on their own. That sense of accomplishment is what drives his passion for teaching.

He enjoys guiding students as they build confidence and develop skills that will shape their futures. Whether students are just starting out or refining existing knowledge, Ethan is committed to helping them grow and succeed through hands-on experience and real-world application.

 

What Makes Ethan’s Program Stand Out

Ethan’s program is built around hands-on learning. Students gain experience working directly with burners, boilers, heating systems, and refrigeration equipment, learning how to install, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of systems.

He emphasizes teamwork, encouraging students to collaborate, build strong relationships, and develop the communication skills needed in the field. His strong connections within the industry also help foster a sense of community and open doors for students after graduation.

Students in the program can pursue a two-year associate degree or choose from one-year certificate options in heating or refrigeration and air conditioning. Graduates leave with the foundational knowledge needed to work in residential and light commercial settings, including skills in system installation, diagnostics, maintenance, and repair. They also gain knowledge of industry codes, Maine state laws, refrigeration cycles, and emerging technologies such as heat pumps.

In addition, the program prepares students for key industry credentials. Graduates have the opportunity to complete the Maine State exam for the Journeyman Oil Burner License as well as the Maine State exam for the Appliance Service and Connection Gas License, giving them a strong advantage as they enter the workforce.

 

Ethan’s Journey in His Field

Ethan began his career working as a mechanic in a body shop before serving in the military, where he specialized in heating systems. This experience sparked his interest in the HVAC field and led him to further his education at Eastern Maine Community College, where he earned his associate degree in HVAC.

He now owns his own business, bringing a valuable, real-world perspective to his teaching. Ethan is passionate about sharing his journey and helping students discover the many career paths available in the trade, from fieldwork and system design to code enforcement and sales.

Outside of Work

Outside the classroom, Ethan enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter. He also stays busy running his business and working on home improvement projects. These experiences keep him connected to the industry and bring fresh, practical knowledge back to his students.

Three Words to Describe Ethan

Determined, Proud, Knowledgeable

Looking Toward the Future 

Ethan is excited about the continued growth of the HVAC/R program as industry standards and technologies evolve. He looks forward to expanding opportunities for students and ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of a changing field.

His advice to those considering the field is simple: stay patient and committed. “Nothing happens overnight,” he says. The effort you put in now will pay off later. For those who enjoy hands-on work, he emphasizes that while the job can be demanding, it’s incredibly rewarding and makes a real difference in people’s lives. HVAC/R work is essential. From keeping homes comfortable to ensuring businesses remain operational, this field offers stable, in-demand career opportunities.

Thank You, Ethan! 

Thank you, Ethan, for your dedication to your students and your commitment to building a program that prepares them for meaningful, in-demand careers. Your passion and real-world experience continue to make a lasting impact at WCCC!