Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center Enhances HVAC Training with $10,000 Grant

The HVAC-R program at Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center has received a $10,000 grant from the 'Explore the Trades Skills Lab, Built By Ferguson' initiative. This grant, one of twelve nationwide, will be used to install an air quality zoning system in the classroom. This update aligns the center's facilities with current industry standards and provides students with relevant training.

Dan Parker, the HVAC-R instructor, plans to use the new system to teach students about air quality management. His proposal includes lessons on air pressure changes, zoning system efficiency, and the benefits of HEPA filters for air quality. This initiative aims to enhance the educational experience by incorporating real-world technologies into the curriculum.

In the past three years, Explore the Trades, in partnership with Ferguson, has equipped 26 schools across the U.S. with essential tools, benefiting over 2,000 students. The program supports vocational education and prepares students for careers in heating, cooling, and plumbing.

Earlier this year, Parker obtained an additional $15,000 through the SkillsUSA Classroom Enhancement/Community Service Grant. This funding was used to update classroom tools, some of which had not been replaced since Parker was a student. This effort supports the program's goal to provide high-quality training tools.

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