This week A-B Tech is kicking off National Apprenticeship Week by highlighting its HVAC program, which has grown from seven students to 22 in its second year. Observed November 17-23 this year, National Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration that brings together business leaders, apprentices, labor, education institutions, and other critical partners to promote the value of Registered Apprenticeships.
“We’re thrilled to report that students in this program have achieved remarkable success, which demonstrates the strength of this model in preparing the next generation of HVAC professionals,” said Dana Moore, Interim Dean of Engineering, Transporation and Technology.
A-B Tech’s HVAC program offers classes on Fridays and one evening per week. In the first year, participants earn a Heating Certificate; in the following year a Cooling Certificate.
“The program that my two guys are in is awesome,” said Anthony Willis, Owner of JAS of Weaverville/Builder’s Supply in Mars Hill. Willis, has two employees currently enrolled in the program. “I highly recommend it to anyone. I am going to have two great men for the future. I can’t say enough good things about your program.”
For more than 30 years A-B Tech has trained students with practical, in-demand skills that will transfer from the classroom to the workplace. A-B Tech works with ApprenticeshipNC to track approximately 150 apprentices within numerous occupations such as healthcare, early childhood education, mechatronics, electrical, technology, HVAC, emergency services, business, and culinary.
Aging workers in trades such as construction and HVAC have created great demand for workers in these areas. By partnering with A-B Tech, companies create their own talent and ensure their employees will receive both the hands-on skills and the credentials they need to excel in their chosen careers. An apprentice may be a current high school student, recent graduate, experienced worker, military veteran, or an individual seeking re-entry.
Support for apprenticeships is strong nationwide and the NC General Assembly has awarded millions in grant funding over the last two years to ApprenticeshipNC for assisting employers in creating new career options for both youth and adults through a registered apprenticeship program
Through partnering with A-B Tech, “Employers can establish a pool to bring on new workers, advance workers, and reduce operational costs. This is truly a win-win proposition,” Cromwell said.
Learn more at Work-Based Learning or call (828) 398-7603.