Empowerment Through Education: CareerEdge Funders Collaborative offers Tuition-Free HVAC Training Opportunity

Empowerment Through Education: CareerEdge Funders Collaborative offers Tuition-Free HVAC Training Opportunity

SARASOTA, FL (November 8, 2023) — CareerEdge is proud to announce an innovative initiative to address the growing demand for skilled HVAC technicians in our community. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton area has the fifth highest concentration of jobs in the country for this occupation.  We are thrilled to partner with American Vocational Academy (AVA) to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.  Graduates of the program will earn EPA certifications and industry recognized Heat Pump/Air Conditioner service and installation credentials.

In response to the demand for qualified HVAC professionals, CareerEdge and AVA are committed to making education accessible to everyone, regardless of financial constraints. Our program is made tuition-free through CareerEdge gracious funders, and will provide hands-on training, industry-relevant coursework, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring participants are well-equipped to excel in their future careers.

Program Highlights:

Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program covers a range of essential HVAC topics, including system installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and energy efficiency.

Experienced Instructor: Participants will learn from industry experts with years of experience in HVAC systems, gaining valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Hands-On Training: We believe in learning by doing. Our participants will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the field.

Job Placement Assistance: Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive support in securing employment within the HVAC industry through a “Meet the Employer” event. The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations to facilitate job placement.

Soft Skills Training: The program goes beyond technical expertise, integrating comprehensive employability and soft skills training to ensure our graduates not only excel in their technical roles but also thrive in the dynamic and collaborative work environments of today’s professional landscape.

“CareerEdge is dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals to build successful careers. By offering tuition-free training, we aim to break down financial barriers and open doors to a brighter future for our participants. We believe that investing in the skills of our residents not only benefits the individuals but also contributes to the overall growth and well-being of our community.”  Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge and Economic Development, Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

Enrollment for the program is now open. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at www.careeredgefunders.org, spaces are limited, and candidates will be selected based on their motivation, aptitude, and potential to thrive in the HVAC field as determined by their application and interview with CareerEdge staff.  Applicants must be at least 17 years of age and have a High School diploma or GED.  Classes meet every Tuesday through Friday from 9a to 1p starting January 19th and ending on April 23rd at American Vocational Academy, 1080 Enterprise Ct. Unit D, Nokomis, FL 34725.