BMX to Air Conditioning: Tom’s Journey into the Trade & Life as a Self-Employed Engineer

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Off The Tools Overtime Podcast, hosts Keiran and Pete welcome Tom from TCM Air Conditioning, their very first guest from the AC trade. Tom shares how he unexpectedly found himself in air conditioning after a false start in fashion photography and a career in BMX riding.The discussion covers:How to get started in air conditioning and what F-gas certification really meansThe reality of going self-employed in the trade (including costly mistakes and lessons learned)Common air con faults and call-outs engineers face dailyPricing jobs, servicing systems, and whether the trade is as lucrative as some thinkThe role of Instagram and online communities in finding work and building credibilityTom’s background as a sponsored BMX rider and how those experiences shaped his careerWhether you’re a plumber curious about air con, thinking of retraining, or just love hearing real stories from the tools, this episode delivers laughs, insights, and valuable trade advice.📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFERGet 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App!Use code: POD30 at checkout📲 Download the Gas Certificate App nowhttps://onelink.to/hbv69u⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead.🔗 Follow us on Socials📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk