South Plains College’s heating, air conditioning and refrigeration technology (HART) program received a $21,352 donation from the Levelland Economic Development Corporation that will fund course supplies and equipment.
LEDC and city representatives presented the check to SPC HART faculty and students on Aug. 31 during a visit to the Levelland campus. Justin Balderas, LEDC executive director, said the corporation sets aside funds for workforce development each year. LEDC noticed the growing demand for professionals in HART fields and the opportunity to fulfill this need with SPC.
“Working with the college allows us to create the jobs that employers need,” Balderas said. “I appreciate SPC’s partnership and the opportunity to collaborate with this investment.” Albert Garcia, dean of SPC’s Technical Education division, said SPC has been working to expand the HART program due to the growing demand for heating, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians. He said the donation will support the College’s efforts to prepare students for the industry.
“LEDC understands the significance of our technical programs and how important it is that our technical education students thrive,” Garcia said. “With this generous gift, we’re going to ensure that our students are successful in the workforce.”
The SPC HART program in Texas prepares students for rewarding careers in the rapidly growing HVAC industry with expert instruction, modern training facilities, and real-world lab experience. It also helps build the technical skills and certifications employers are looking for.
Students learn to install, maintain, and repair residential, commercial, and industrial climate control systems with a program that offers industry standards and in-depth training in HVAC electrical systems and controls, refrigeration cycles and components, airflow measurement and duct design, gas and electric heating systems, heat pump technology, en-vironmental regulations and refrigerant handling (EPA 608), and system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair through hands-on lab work using state-of-theart tools and equipment to simulate real HVAC service scenarios.
Students have the option of earning several certifications to help them advance in their careers quickly.
To support SPC students and techical programs, contact the Development Office at 806-716-2019 or dschafer@ southplainscollege. edu.