Author Details

Renee Rathburn’s journey into the skilled trades was not something she originally set out to pursue. Instead, it developed naturally through curiosity, opportunity, and a genuine interest in understanding how things work. Today, as Plumbing Service Manager at Veteran Air, Renee brings more than a decade of experience across HVAC, electrical, and plumbing trades, along with a deep respect for the technicians who keep homes running safely and efficiently.

Renee’s professional path began while she was pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. During that time, she accepted a position at an HVAC company in Nevada, at a time when much of the business was still run through paper files and manual processes. What began as a job quickly became a gateway into an entirely new world. Her role exposed her to nearly every aspect of the business, from office operations and dispatching to supporting technicians in the field. Through this hands-on exposure, Renee developed a fascination with the technical side of the home services industry and the complexity behind the systems homeowners rely on every day.

After relocating back to Florida, Renee continued her studies while joining another home services company that operated HVAC, electrical, and plumbing divisions. Working in an environment where multiple trades intersected gave her the opportunity to observe and learn from a wide range of professionals. While she gained valuable experience across all areas of the business, it was the plumbing division that immediately captured her attention.

Plumbing appealed to Renee because of the problem-solving it requires and the direct impact it has on homeowners’ daily lives. Determined to learn as much as possible, she immersed herself in the trade. She spent time both in the office and out in the field, absorbing knowledge from technicians, asking questions on job sites, and gaining hands-on experience whenever possible. Each new challenge deepened her understanding of the work and strengthened her commitment to the industry.

Over the past thirteen years, Renee has built a career that spans HVAC, electrical, and plumbing operations. This cross-trade experience has given her a broad perspective on how the different systems within a home work together and how service teams must collaborate to deliver reliable solutions. While she respects and appreciates every trade, plumbing remains the field she is most passionate about.

Like many people in the skilled trades, Renee admits that there were moments when she considered stepping away from the industry to try something new. However, time and again she found herself returning to the work she understood best and enjoyed the most. The fast-paced nature of the service industry, the opportunity to solve real problems, and the chance to support both customers and technicians ultimately confirmed that the trades were where she belonged.

Renee joined Veteran Air in 2022, initially stepping into the role of dispatcher. The position allowed her to leverage her operational experience while gaining an even deeper understanding of the company’s processes and culture. Her strong organizational skills, industry knowledge, and ability to communicate effectively with both customers and technicians quickly made her an essential part of the team.

Through dedication and consistent performance, Renee advanced into her current role as Plumbing Service Manager. In this leadership position, she focuses on supporting technicians, strengthening operational efficiency, and ensuring that every service call reflects the high standards Veteran Air is known for. Her background across multiple trades allows her to bridge communication between departments and provide valuable insight into how different systems and teams interact.

Renee takes pride in bringing both experience and perspective to her team. She believes that successful service organizations are built on collaboration, continuous learning, and mutual respect among technicians and staff. By fostering a supportive environment where knowledge is shared and growth is encouraged, she works to ensure that every member of the plumbing team has the tools and confidence needed to succeed.

Outside of work, Renee is embracing an exciting new chapter in her life as a new mother. Becoming a parent has given her an even deeper appreciation for the importance of home, safety, and reliability—values that closely align with the work she and her team provide to homeowners every day.

As Plumbing Service Manager at Veteran Air, Renee Rathburn continues to combine her passion for the trade, her operational experience, and her dedication to teamwork to help ensure that the company delivers dependable service to the communities it proudly serves.