A local air conditioning company has partnered with the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) to give hands-on training and guidance to the students of the institute's heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) program.
As part of ongoing efforts to increase the number of qualified workers in the industry, Air Conditioning Depot, and its sister company, Total Comfort Air Conditioning, donated a ductless unit to the program and spent a day at BTVI's campus giving an interactive demo showcasing techniques and tips in relation to installing the split unit system.
AC Depot's owner, Chris Knowles, spoke to the students about the value of learning a trade and the importance of having strong work ethics when entering the workforce. Knowles also stressed the abundance of opportunities in the country for those who are truly dedicated to learning a skill set.
"The HVAC industry is in high demand for qualified tradesmen who take pride in their work, and exhibit professionalism and strong customer service skills," said Knowles.
During the demo, Total Comfort technician Antonio Lewis spoke to the class about real-life scenarios he faces in the field, and the best ways to manage customers' expectations and requests. Lewis also explained the importance of doing the right thing for customers, their homes and one's company during an installation.
BTVI's Dean of Construction Trades Alexander Darville, is thrilled about AC Depot's involvement with the HVAC program and the resulting benefits for the students.
"This is an example to local companies to get involved with education. If every firm takes a more active role, we would see a significant increase in the overall standard of workmanship in the country," Darville stated.
The donation and demo was the first of many initiatives Air Conditioning Depot would like to participate in with BTVI in an effort to increase the desirability and skill sets of the institute's HVAC graduates.
"The problem we are seeing in the industry is that local contractors are struggling to find good employees, and there is a lack of confidence in hiring local companies because of a poor standard of workmanship. We are excited to get involved in preparing students to have the skills, experience and qualities necessary to not only be prepared to enter the field after graduation, but to be relevant in their respective industries," said Knowles.
Air Conditioning Depot has future plans to hold regular workshops and field trip exercises to allow the students to learn hands-on technical skills, strong work ethics and a high level of customer service, directly from experienced technicians.

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