RETA Breeze May-June 2022

To increase its capacity and access to three in-demand manufacturing majors, the College built the Greiner Advanced Manufac- turing Center. The Advanced Manufacturing Center was developed to increase space and capacity for the Computer Integrated Machining (CIM) technology, metals fabrication and welding technology, and HVAC/R technology programs. The center provides greatly expanded classroom space, and includes dedicated computer laboratories and flex space for training and industry-based conferences, including the Burnham Holdings Center for HVAC Technology. “We believe that education is a pathway to prosperity,” said Pedro Rivera, President, Thaddeus Steven College of Technology. “Our college is an instrument of change, in the lives of our students, graduates, our community, and especially our business and industry partners.” “Due to our partnerships with business and industry in HVAC and refrigeration, we are able to provide a state-of-the-art learning environment and curriculum,” continued Rivera. “I want to learn all the new technologies in order to make my job easier and keep up with the evolving times,” said Jonathan Klein, first-year HVAC/R student. “Thaddeus Stevens allows me to do this, and I love the balance between lecture and hands-on work in the shop. My professor, Matthew Bixler, really walks us through what entering the industry will be like.” Industry support A variety of manufacturers either donated equipment or provided deep discounts. This list included Burnham Holdings, Danfoss, EVAPCO, GEA, Independent Refrigeration Service, Manitowoc, Thermal Solutions and U.S. Boiler Company. Use of the HVAC/R lab began immediately, even before it was fully complete. Setting up the commercial and industrial equipment has taken more time, especially considering that some of the equipment needed to be customized for the College’s purposes. As heating and cooling equipment gets more sophisticated, the technicians - and the

Left: Student Derek Dunmeyer threads pipe. Above: Joshuah Clark practices sweating pipe. Below: Trent Maus cuts pipe as part of the HVAC/R course.

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