TCAT launching a new evening HVAC program at its Crossville campus to accommodate a growing waitlist and high industry demand.
TCAT Upper Cumberland President Cliff Wightman said the local construction boom has created a steady need for skilled workers in the heating and cooling sector. Wrightman said the school monitors student interest levels to decide when to add additional training schedules.
“We never want to be able to deny anybody access to the programs, but obviously there is a financial aspect to what we do,” Wightman said. “So when we see a large number of people that’s wanting to have those educational opportunities, we’ll do whatever we can to create additional programs, whether it be a day class or a night class.”
The new course will take place at the Crossville campus four days a week. Wightman said the class will run Monday through Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Administrators plan to cap the class size at roughly 20 students to ensure quality instruction.
“There again we want to give the instructor and the student the best bang for the dollar,” Wightman said. “So 20 with that program being it is so much more hands-on, that’s generally where we’re going to cap in at.”
Instructors for the program are former industry professionals who hold certifications from NATE and HVAC Excellence. The curriculum includes practical training where students repair units outdoors in various weather conditions to simulate actual job sites.
“We also do live work projects in conjunction with things like the Housing Authority where we go in and do work for them,” Wightman said. “That’s real-world experience for our students. At the same time it helps with backlog that the Housing Authority may have on repair of their units.”
High demand for the trade has resulted in waitlists for the three existing day programs in the Upper Cumberland region. Staff members utilize these lists to contact potential students who might prefer the evening schedule to accommodate current employment.
“You know, honestly Balin, the bulk of TCAT students in nearly all of our programs are generally placed before they even finish the program,” Wightman said. “And I think that’s one of the cool aspects of a TCAT.”
Graduates of the program often secure employment with local companies or pursue self-employment opportunities through subcontracting work.