Students in the Center for Career Services’ new HVAC program are in the process of wrapping up a productive inaugural year, one that has provided an additional opportunity for hands-on learning.

Launched at the start of the school year, the program has given students from SWBOCES’ component districts the chance to explore careers in heating, ventilation and air conditioning—an industry with strong demand and growth potential. Over the past several months, students built a solid foundation in HVAC theory, and have recently progressed toward more hands-on, real-world applications.

Instructor Moises Robles, who brought more than a decade of industry experience into the classroom, guided students through key concepts including refrigeration systems, heating and cooling principles, and tool usage. As the year progressed, students transitioned from classroom instruction to working directly with HVAC equipment, gaining practical experience that mirrors the work of professionals in the field.

Mr. Robles has recently had his students working off work order forms—just as they will one day as professionals.

“I want to get the students ready so when they enter the field they will say, ‘Oh yeah, I’ve done that before. I have an idea how to work off of a work order.’”

Among the students benefiting from the program is junior Nick Pelliccio of Harrison High School, who said the hands-on component has been especially valuable as he considers a future in the trade.

“This is what I want to do with the rest of my life,” said Pelliccio, whose father owns an HVAC company. “I’m hoping I can continue to get more education. Even me, I don’t get to do this every day. I work during the summer, but it’s great to here and get a lot of repetition.”

The shift from theory to application has been a highlight for many in the class. Students have had opportunities to work with HVAC units in the classroom, reinforcing what they learned earlier in the year and building confidence in their technical skills.

Looking ahead, the second year of the program will focus heavily on safety regulations and industry standards—an essential step in preparing students for careers as HVAC technicians.

As the program completes its first year, both students and their instructor are already looking forward to what comes next, with the goal of turning classroom knowledge into career-ready skills.

“I’m really, really proud of them for what they’ve already accomplished,” Mr. Robles said. “If they stick with it, I know some of them are hungry and they will be successful.”