Valley Metro Rail and The Refrigeration School Inc. (RSI) have successfully completed a first-of-its-kind customized training program specifically designed around the niche HVAC equipment utilized on Valley Metro light rail vehicles.
“As one of the few light rail systems operating regularly in 100-plus degree heat, Valley Metro Rail requires a workforce with specialized knowledge and skills,” said Ken Raghunandan, Valley Metro rail light rail vehicle maintenance superintendent. “RSI’s custom training program enables current and future Valley Metro Rail maintenance technicians to develop their career and technical knowledge, proving that transit not only connects riders to their jobs, it also creates and sustains careers.”
Raghunandan contacted RSI, which happens to be located along Valley Metro Rail, to develop The Valley Metro Rail Refrigeration Training Program. This marks the first time RSI has developed a custom program specifically designed around the unique needs of an individual employer.
“With today’s HVAC systems more sophisticated than ever, the industry requires a workforce with specialized knowledge and skills for installations, maintenance and repairs,” said Brandon Milligan, president of The Refrigeration School. “Our goal at RSI has always been to provide hands-on education with a strong emphasis on the highly sought after electrical, diagnostic and mechanical technology skills that employers seek. We are proud to take this same approach into the field with Valley Metro, and offer continued career training that meets their specific needs.”
Seven maintenance technicians earned their HVAC certification by completing the five-week, 100 hour hands-on training course. The classes were scheduled around their regular work shifts and conducted at the Valley Metro Rail Operations & Maintenance Center.
“I wanted to take this course to gain more specialized skills and expand my job knowledge,” said Michael Dechant, Valley Metro rail maintenance technician. “Each of our HVAC units is large enough to cool three average-sized homes in Arizona. We’ve learned specific ways to diagnose and repair issues in order to create a cool ride for passengers.”
