ST. LOUIS, April 19, 2024 - During the 2024 AHR Expo, Rapid Locking System (RLS) promised some big news was on the way for the new year, and this leading provider of press-to-connect fittings for the HVACR industry has delivered, with a grand opening of a training center and cutting-edge mobile showroom in St. Louis.
The day's highlights included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, preceded by press fitting demonstrations and a behind-the-scenes tour of the RLS manufacturing facility.
"The training center and mobile showroom are testaments to our unwavering dedication to expanding education and training initiatives within the HVACR industry," said Paul Schubert, president of Rapid Locking System. "We are excited to offer new and veteran contractors alike a variety of ways to continue their education and share new efficient approaches for HVACR installations and repairs."
The training center is the latest addition to RLS' expansive 80,000-square-foot headquarters facility and will serve as a one-stop-shop for contractors, engineers and wholesalers to learn about evolving industry trends, and how to successfully install and implement press fittings to maximize their businesses. Training center visitors can participate in live press fitting demonstrations, receive a training certification and behind-the-scenes tour the RLS facility.
RLS also officially unveiled its brand-new Mobile Showroom, a vehicle equipped to travel directly to contractors, engineers and distributors for live trainings. The mobile showroom features a virtual reality aspect that will allow users to tour the RLS facility and create their own virtual press fitting without ever setting foot in the actual building. Customers will be able to request their city as a stop on the cross-country tour.
"Over the past five years, we've seen the demand for HVACR fittings nearly double, and we expect that trend to persist with industry-wide changes such as the recent shift in refrigerants," Schubert said. "RLS is dedicated to ensuring contractors, engineers and distributors have access to education and training opportunities to further sustain their businesses as the industry continues to evolve."
Sources report that the expansion of RLS's training initiative comes as part of the company's goal to train more than 20,000 contractors throughout the next year. This significant commitment aligns seamlessly with RLS's overarching strategy to continue to invest in fostering growth and innovation within the HVACR industry.
To learn more about visiting the RLS training center or to request a stop on the mobile showroom tour, please visit rapidlockingsystem.com.