“Don’t just learn it, understand it.“ Last month, Ed Coddington took home Gold in HVAC at the ABC National Craft Championships and was also recognized with the HVAC Safety Award.
And today, we’re spotlighting the technician behind the achievement. Ed represented ColonialWebb on the national stage, competing against more than 200 of the top craft professionals from across the country at the ABC National Craft Championships. Earning top honors at this level requires precision, technical knowledge, the ability to perform under pressure, and a deep commitment to safety.
But Ed’s journey to that moment didn’t start there. When he joined ColonialWebb after moving to Richmond in late 2023, his path wasn’t exactly linear.
He initially interviewed for a Special Projects role but ended up joining the Service team. Since then, Ed has continued to grow in an environment that challenges him to step outside his comfort zone. “The technicians here are smart, willing to teach, and not afraid to put apprentices on big jobs,” he said. “Being exposed to things you don’t understand helps you learn, as long as you’re willing.” That willingness to learn and take on challenges already sets him apart.
But for Ed, growth isn’t just about the work. It’s about the people around him. He credits much of his success to the support of his teammates, leadership, and family. “My supervisors have given me a lot of grace when it comes to putting my family first,” he shared. “They’ve worked with me to keep me in the field, in school, and growing.” That balance is something he’s still actively working to maintain.
“Work and life are always changing, and maintaining both at a high level is something you have to stay conscious of,” he said. “But at the end of the day, my family is what drives me to keep pushing and doing my best.“
Outside of work, Ed describes himself as a “chameleon” with a wide range of interests. He spent more than 20 years as an artist, skateboarder, and musician (releasing multiple albums), painting murals, and competing in skateboarding competitions. He’s also worked as an arborist assistant, in high-end hospitality, and is currently exploring woodworking and DIY home improvement. “I’m a jack of all trades in life,” he said. “But most importantly, I’m a husband and a dad. That’s what really defines who I am.”
In the field, Ed values 
the camaraderie that comes with the job. “For a company this size, the people here are down to earth. There’s respect, there’s support, and everyone has each other’s backs.” That mindset shows up in how he approaches his work, especially when facing complex challenges.
One of his most memorable moments involved restoring a “condemned” unit that hadn’t run in years. After identifying the issues and rebuilding the wiring from scratch, Ed safely brought it back online, an effort that required both technical skill and creative problem-solving. “It’s those kinds of calls that stick with you, the ones that make you think outside the box and push yourself.“
For those starting out in the trades, Ed keeps his advice simple:
“Be a sponge. Don’t just learn the material, understand it. Ask questions, stay curious, and don’t ever get complacent. There’s always something to learn.“
From stepping into unfamiliar situations to performing on the national stage, Ed’s journey is a strong example of what growth in the trades can look like when opportunity meets effort.