Ice Air Strengthens Commitment to Workforce Development with HVAC Equipment Donation to Apex Technical School
MOUNT VERNON, New York — Ice Air, a manufacturer of high-performance HVAC systems, has once again demonstrated its commitment to workforce development and education by donating 30 SPHP (single package vertical heat pump) units to Apex Technical School. This generous contribution will provide students with hands-on training in cutting-edge HVAC technology, ensuring they graduate with the skills needed to excel in the skilled trades workforce.
Apex Technical School, known for its strong legacy of training New Yorkers in the skilled trades, has long partnered with Ice Air to create pathways for students to enter the HVAC industry. Over the years, Ice Air has hired numerous Apex graduates, recognizing the school’s reputation for producing highly trained professionals. This latest equipment donation reinforces the collaboration between education and industry, helping to prepare the next generation of HVAC technicians.
Bridging Education and Industry with Hands-On Training
With the demand for skilled HVAC professionals on the rise, access to real-world equipment is essential for students to gain practical experience. The SPHP units donated by Ice Air will be integrated into Apex’s training curriculum, allowing students to work with modern, high-efficiency heat pump technology.
“At Ice Air, we believe in investing in the future of skilled trades,” said David Calderon, operations manager of Ice Air. “Apex Technical School has been a tremendous partner – our ‘first stop’ for the new hires for the work we do — and we’re proud to provide students with the tools and technology they need to succeed. Many of our best hires are Apex graduates. They come in as production line or general factory and move up to apprentice or senior technicians. We look forward to continuing to support their educational journey.”
“Our relationship with Ice Air is fantastic,” says Charlie Sarno, building manager at Apex. “I’ve been here 17 years, and can tell you our students benefit from companies like Ice Air who have the interests of the students in mind through such donations. It’s a win-win all around.”
Strengthening Workforce Development and Community Growth
The partnership between Apex Technical School and Ice Air is a model for how businesses and educational institutions can work together to close the skilled labor gap and support economic growth. For example, according to a 30-page Lumina Foundation report, a significant majority (around 87%) of businesses are currently experiencing or anticipate a skills gap in the near future. The report highlighted the critical need for collaboration between businesses and educational institutions to address this issue by developing tailored training programs, apprenticeships, and curriculum aligned with industry needs.
By equipping students with industry-relevant training, the Ice Air initiative not only benefits the school but also strengthens the broader HVAC industry.
“This donation enhances our ability to give students the most relevant, up-to-date equipment in the industry,” said Ric Nadel, Ice Air founder and CEO. “We are incredibly grateful to Apex for their continued support. Their collaboration helps us maintain a hands-on learning environment building on what they’ve learned and preparing them for successful careers.”
A Legacy of Collaboration
Ice Air’s ongoing support of Apex Technical School reflects a shared commitment to education, workforce readiness, and community engagement. This latest donation marks another milestone in their long-standing relationship, ensuring that students have the skills, experience, and industry connections to transition seamlessly from training to employment.
For more information on Ice Air, visit ice-air.com.