Carrier has officially opened a new training academy at its Bracknell service and rentals depot, reinforcing its dedication to training, and ‘inspiring the next generation of engineers and technicians while helping to address the skills gap in the HVAC sector’.
Carrier is part of Carrier Global Corporation, reportedly a ‘global leader’ in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
The training academy offers trainee engineers and technicians hands-on experience with Carrier’s commercial product portfolio, including heat pumps, chillers, and air-handling units. Trainees can also gain skills in service repairs and upgrades, such as VFD (Variable Frequency Drives), refrigerant, compressor overhauls and controls, as well as modernisation and preventative and predictive maintenance.
“The grand opening of our new training academy marks a significant milestone for Carrier and stands as a testament to our commitment to building a skilled workforce capable of leading the way in intelligent climate and energy solutions,” said Andrew Paddock, managing director, Carrier Commercial HVAC UK and Nordics. “We recognise that a future without new talent and continual skill enhancement makes it difficult to fully embrace the electrification of heating systems and to meet Net Zero targets.”
During the opening, guests toured the new facilities and saw ‘learning come to life’ with equipment demonstrations. Attendees also celebrated the achievements of Carrier’s graduating apprentices who have progressed through its Apprenticeship programme, and heard more about how the business is actively growing the programme with the appointment of a dedicated apprenticeship programme leader, Adele Watson, along with plans to recruit 20 new apprentices.
Over coming months, Carrier plans developing a training programme focused on educating its engineers about the adoption of new refrigerants, including R290, and to invite customers and contract partners to experience exclusive training days at the new facility. The training academy will also be used for Carrier’s CIBSE-approved CPD training courses to support HVAC professionals’ ongoing professional growth.
