GREENFIELD — With an $810,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, Greenfield Community College plans to expand its HVAC training program.
The funds will allow the school to train 40 students in heating, ventilation and air conditioning work, adding to the 27 students GCC has graduated from the program since it was launched in 2024. In a statement, Kristin Cole, vice president of workforce development at GCC, said the college plans to open two cohorts for entry-level training and two cohorts for continued training for existing HVAC workers.
“This funding allows us to continue to offer a full range of HVAC and heat pump training through our Workforce Development division, creating excellent opportunities for residents to enter and advance in clean energy careers,” Cole said. “With these programs, we can address the urgent needs of local employers and equip our community with the skills necessary for success in a sector that supports both economic growth and clean energy.”
GCC’s $810,000 award is part of $13.4 million being divided among 13 community colleges across the state to encourage students to pursue careers in the trades, which are experiencing a growing labor shortage as professionals retire faster than they can be replaced.
According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, nearly 30% of current HVAC technicians are over the age of 55, and if recruitment rates do not increase, the HVAC industry could face a shortfall of more than 300,000 technicians nationwide by 2031.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 7,510 people working in heating, ventilation and air conditioning in Massachusetts in 2023. The state is aiming to train 500 students through the $13.4 million initiative.
“We need a strong pipeline of energy workers to help keep our homes comfortable and lower energy bills,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a statement. “By investing in HVAC and heat pump training programs, we’re making sure Massachusetts has the skilled workforce needed to meet growing demand and creating lasting economic opportunity in every corner of the state.”
By offering not only entry-level cohorts, but classes for experienced HVAC technicians as well, the college hopes to prepare students for a career and help those who are already in their careers keep up with evolving technologies.
“We need training that keeps pace with how the energy industry is evolving,” state Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said in a statement. “These grants give community colleges the tools to deliver hands-on, modern instruction that prepares students for the work happening today and what’s coming next.”
“Massachusetts is investing in the next generation of mechanics and technicians through the Clean Energy Center’s new Heat Pump and HVAC Training Network at 13 community colleges across the commonwealth,” added Sen. Jo Comerford, D-Northampton, Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “This program will expand opportunities for students and ensure we have the clean energy workforce we need. I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its ongoing commitment to our public higher education system, and to the Mass Clean Energy Center for its leadership in advancing a cleaner, greener Massachusetts.”
