Grading a Program

Leading manufacturers of HVACR equipment and equipment distributors understand the essential role that HVACR education plays in shaping the future of the industry. They recognize that well-trained technicians are crucial for the successful installation, operation, and maintenance of their equipment. As a result, these manufacturers and distributors actively support HVACR educational programs and initiatives in various ways.

However, with limited time and resources, these organizations often struggle to identify which schools they should partner with. Therefore, the following are some important items for review and consideration when evaluating HVACR educational programs. In addition, it includes a suggested scoring system for identifying quality programs to establish partnerships with.

Program Recognition - 9 Points

The program consist of a minimum of 750 hours of training and is recognized by a state department of education or the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship.

Program Accreditation - 16 Points

The program has met nationally accepted standards through third-party programmatic accreditation.

Comprehensive Curriculum – 7 Points

A robust HVACR curriculum should cover a wide range of technologies and equipment used in the industry. It should provide students with a thorough understanding of fundamental principles, installation, maintenance, and repair techniques. Documentation should be available to show that the curriculum covers the requested equipment and technologies, ensuring students receive relevant and up-to-date training.

Industry Support and Involvement – 5 Points

A strong connection between the program and the HVACR industry is crucial. Industry support can be demonstrated through guest speakers, industry-sponsored training, field trips, and participation in local trade shows. Additionally, the program's advisory board should include representatives from manufacturers, ensuring the curriculum remains responsive to the industry's changing needs.

Adequate Funding – 10 Points

Sufficient funding is essential to maintain a high-quality HVACR program. It should cover the purchase and maintenance of equipment, trainers, tools, test instruments, and supplies necessary for hands-on training. This ensures that students have access to current equipment, enabling them to develop skills required in the ever-evolving HVACR industry.

Attrition Rate – 9 Points

Monitoring the attrition rate is crucial to assess the program's effectiveness and student engagement. A low attrition rate, ideally 30% or less over a three-year period, indicates that students are motivated, satisfied with the program, and progressing towards their educational goals.

Employment Placement – 8 Points

An effective HVACR program should prepare graduates for gainful employment in the HVACR industry or related fields. A minimum of 80% of program graduates finding employment demonstrates the program's ability to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure jobs in their chosen field.

Waiting List – 5 Points

The program should have evidence of an active student waiting list.

Instructor Qualifications – 15 Points

Instructor should possess

? A minimum of five years of field experience directly related to the competencies being taught.

? A valid Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Universal Certification.

? And meet the criteria established by the state or legal authority required for teaching.

Instructors should be a

? Graduate of a full time HVACR program,

? or hold an associate degree in HVACR technology,

? or holds a bachelor’s degree in HVACR or building trades technology,

? or holds the credential of Certified Master HVACR Educator “CMHE”.

Qualified Continuing Education – 16 Points

The Instructor shall obtain 10 hours of continuing education annually (1 CEU = 10 Continuing Education Hours). In addition, a minimum of 50% of this content has been attained through manufacturer direct or approved training (Example National HVACR Education Conference).

The following is a suggested scoring system for identifying quality programs to establish partnerships with.

? Tier 1: 75 Points or Higher (may qualify for donations)

? Tier 2: 65 to 75 Points (may qualify for significant discounts)

? Tier 3: 55 to 65 Points (may receive discounts through local distributors)

? Tier 4: Below 55 Points (program needs support for improvement)

Please note, these are just suggestions for consideration in identifying HVACR educational programs to collaborate with. To ensure the quality of HVACR educational programs, it is crucial to consider criteria such as program recognition, comprehensive curriculum coverage, student outcomes, industry support, adequate funding, low attrition rates, and qualified instructors. By evaluating programs based on these standards, leading manufacturers can identify schools that align with their goals and actively support initiatives that contribute to a well-trained workforce in the HVACR industry.

Conclusion:To ensure the next generation of HVACR service technicians are properly trained, and the schools have the necessary resources, it is imperative all manufacturers be part of the solution. Take the time to make sure you, and the organizations distributing your equipment get involved in the program advisory meetings at local schools, to get firsthand information on the resources they need to create world class programs we need. Lastly, don’t forget to participate in the National HVACR Education Conference where you can meet those on the front line of HVACR education.