A steel I-beam stating “Strong Products – Strong Partnerships” welcomes guests as they enter the newly remodeled Uponor Factory Training Center set to open Feb. 16, 2010, to a host of visitors including local contractors, distributors, vendors, manufacturer reps, government officials, building industry leaders and media.

The facility, located next to the Uponor North American corporate headquarters in Apple Valley, MN, is an 11,000-sq.ft. teaching and learning hub dedicated to educating professionals in the radiant, plumbing and fire sprinkler industries.

Now 50% larger, the revamped training center features various new improvements such as stadium seating, a second classroom, a trainee business center, sophisticated audio/visual technology, a hands-on applications lab, enhanced controls learning station, self-serve refreshment area and a new cafeteria.

For class details, training dates and to register online, visit www.uponor-usa.com/training.

“When designing the new factory training center, we kept the contractor at the forefront of our minds,” says Steve Lockridge, senior product manager, Channel Marketing at Uponor. “We wanted to offer our business partners a comprehensive training experience that included knowledgeable instructors, the latest technology and hands-on opportunities.”

Additionally, the  training program offers an expanded class curriculum to provide attendees with greater access to the most current, up-to-date knowledge in the industry. Taught by senior trainer, Wes Sisco, and customer trainer, Steve Swanson, the factory training courses offer attendees everything they need to know to properly design, install and troubleshoot Uponor systems and applications.

Uponor’s training program is part of a long legacy of commitment and support to the building professional. Since 1993, the program has educated more than 100,000 radiant, plumbing and fire safety professionals either at the factory or onsite via local manufacturer representatives.

“We realize the building landscape is changing with the introduction of sustainable new concepts and changes to building codes and standards,” says Sisco. “By offering new and advanced courses to navigate the contractor through existing and emerging technologies, we are making a concerted effort to support the industry professional and improve the building market.”

The 2010 expanded course offering includes the following classes:
• Radiant Hydronics and Design (2 Days)
• Advanced Radiant Hydronics and Design (2 Days)
• Advanced Design Suite™ (1 Day)
• Geothermal Design and Application (2 Days)
• Climate Cŏntrol™ Network System (2½ Days)
• Climate Controls (2 Days)
• AquaSAFE™ Levels I and II (2 Days)
• AquaSAFE Level II (1 Day)

For class details, training dates and to register online, visit www.uponor-usa.com/training.