Bristol Community College is currently offering a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) program in partnership with Diman Regional Vocational High School.
Bristol’s free, 17-week HVAC/R training program is a college program that is being hosted at Diman in the evening and taught by Diman’s experienced instructors. The program combines hands-on learning with HVAC tools and equipment, interactive simulations, lectures, and group discussions to develop technical skills and industry knowledge.
After completing the program, participants will be prepared for entry-level positions such as HVAC installer, refrigeration mechanic, building maintenance specialist, energy efficiency technician, and more. In Massachusetts, workers in these positions can earn approximately $77,000 or $37 /hour.
“Bristol Community College is proud to be a leader in workforce training in the region, and our partnership with Diman Regional Vocational High School, well known for its strong technical education, reflects our shared commitment to preparing students with the skills they need for in-demand careers,” said Dr. Sedgwick L. Harris, President, Bristol Community College. “Together, we are expanding hands-on training and opportunities that support our community and regional workforce.”
“Diman Regional is excited to announce a collaborative effort with its educational partner of Bristol Community College. This partnership allows students who register through Bristol to take an apprentice style basic training program in HVAC/R utilizing Diman's vocational program taught by Diman Instructors,” said Brian Bentley, Superintendent, Diman Regional Vocational High School. “The Bristol students are learning the skills and the theory necessary to become employable in the HVAC/R workforce. Engaging the students from Bristol is one more step in a joint partnership of vocational and career training for those seeking to enhance their opportunities to become employed in the Greater Fall River Area.”
Bristol’s current HVAC/R training cohort is full. The college will announce future enrollment opportunities and the next available session. Interested participants are encouraged to check the college’s website for updates.
The college will be working to expand into additional workforce training areas supported by a $1.9 million grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC). Bristol has received $440,000 for a welding program and $450,000 toward the development of a crane hoist program from MassCEC. These careers offer strong wages, job stability, and opportunities for advancement in both residential and commercial settings.
For more information about Bristol Community College’s HVAC/R program, please visit www.BristolCC.edu/HVAC.