Recognizing the need for future HVAC technicians, Trane has partnered with Gateway Technical College in Kenosha, Wis. The college recently opened its new Energy Systems Training Labs, which Trane played a key role in developing. Trane officials also helped in shaping the curriculum that will be taught at the college.

According to the Department of Labor, job growth for HVAC technicians is estimated to grow 34% nationwide between 2010 and 2020. With this in mind, Trane and Gateway closely collaborated to enhance the college’s HVAC career and technical education program in an effort to help close the skills gap in the industry. The labs feature advanced HVAC technology solutions manufactured by Trane. Trane also worked with Gateway in updating the HVAC systems serving the campus.

The labs include equipment in residential and commercial/industrial heating and cooling, building automation, refrigeration, renewable energy systems, and geoexchange technology. Other business partners have collaborated with Gateway to provide additional training equipment.

“This is significant for the college,” said Gateway President Bryan Albrecht. “We see employers in these job markets calling for technicians with skills that go beyond HVAC. Employers are looking for skills in operating those systems in a sustainable manner.”