Ice Energy Enhances Commitment to Job Creation, Supports Local Economy Through Formation of Capstone College Training Program
Thermal energy storage company teams up with local college to develop interactive training program
Ice Energy, a leading provider of distributed thermal energy storage and smart grid solutions, has partnered with Capstone College, an accredited college located in Pasadena, Calif., to develop an interactive training program designed to educate students, local technicians and contractors in the disciplines of thermal energy storage and HVAC refrigeration. The program will augment Capstone College’s existing training program in HVAC and refrigeration and the development of future N.A.T.E. (North American Technical Excellence) certification, which is an installer requirement for utilities such as Southern California Edison.
“The development of this program is an excellent opportunity for Ice Energy to partner with an educational institution in creating a program that we view as a great foundation for educating the future energy storage workforce,” said Ice Energy CEO Dave Prezioso.
Full-time students will have the ability to enroll in a 36-week comprehensive HVAC Technician program that will feature a thermal storage/Ice Bear training class. Local contractors and qualified technicians can participate in modular training programs to earn Ice Energy installation accreditation and be introduced to emerging industry technologies.
“We appreciate Ice Energy’s involvement in this training program, as it gives participants real-word, hands-on experience with guidance from industry experts. As an education institution, it is our goal to prepare students to meet the expectations of industry and in particular, emerging technologies affecting the job market,” said Capstone College Campus Director Lou Rodriguez.
Ice Energy will donate AC units and an Ice Bear to the school for educational use and program participants will in return provide the company with R&D support, site survey work and installation assistance through an internship-like experience. Ice Energy will determine content of course tests and lab work while the college exercises control of educational administrative matters including approvals, and instructional staff.
The program highlights Ice Energy’s commitment to providing green jobs, boosting local economies, and educating future HVAC energy storage industry professionals.