CareerEdge, the workforce initiative of the Sarasota Chamber, is hosting an HVAC Installation & Maintenance Fast-Track Training Graduation. Six program participants are graduating with their EPA certification, HVAC maintenance, preventative maintenance, Forklift, job site safety and equipment repairs skills as well as Bridges to Careers Soft Skills training. The event will be Tuesday, June 30th from 6:30pm – 7:30pm at the Music Compound on 1751 Cattlemen Road.

The HVAC Fast-Track Training is a way for employers to quickly fill in demand HVAC openings that offer a career pathway for future promotions within the industry. CareerEdge brought HVAC employers and STC together to identify the specific curriculum components for this consolidated, employer led hands on training. The Bridges to Careers program taught the students the essential soft skills employers look for when hiring. In March, the instructor quickly adapted the curriculum when STC transitioned to online learning by developing presentations and tests, using Zoom to connect with participants for an hour three times per week through late May. Working closely with HVAC employers, CareerEdge placed participants in internships to ensure they received hands on training on the jobsite and graduated on time. 100% of the students are now employed in full-time employment making above $14.00 per hour as a starting wage. Before going virtual, the training was held at Suncoast Technical College and was made possible by funding from the Eppard Family Foundation and The Harry and Jenette Weinberg Foundation.