On January 30, career technical education leaders and instructors from across Ohio convened at Tri-County Career Center for a highly impactful HVAC Collaboration Day, sponsored by Buckeye Educational Systems. The workshop was hosted by Jason Hoffman of Buckeye Educational Systems and organized in partnership with Andrea Townsend and Amy Shumway of Tri-County Career Center, along with Connie Altier, Executive Director of the Ohio Technical Centers Directors Association.
Participants traveled from across the state for this focused day of collaboration, underscoring the importance of aligning HVAC and Plumbing programs with industry expectations, workforce needs, and scalable instructional models that can be implemented statewide.
Hands-On Learning with Amatrol HVAC Training Systems
A central focus of the workshop was the hands-on demonstration of Amatrol HVAC learning systems, which generated strong discussion and engagement among instructors and administrators alike. Amatrol systems are designed specifically for Career Technical Education and workforce training, providing industrial-grade HVAC hardware paired with fully integrated eLearning that supports both knowledge-based instruction and skill development.
Participants experienced how Amatrol’s HVAC platforms enable students to safely learn and practice core competencies across thermal, electrical, and mechanical systems, progressing to advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting. Each system is supported by comprehensive instructor resources, including detailed schematics, data sheets, answer guides, lesson plans, and skill assessments, reducing instructor prep time while improving instructional consistency.
A key feature highlighted during the demonstrations was FaultPro computerized fault insertion, which allows instructors to introduce both component-level and system-level faults. This capability enables students to develop real-world troubleshooting skills that employers consistently identify as critical for HVAC technicians, without risking equipment damage or compromising safety.
Designed for Classroom Integration and Student Engagement
Throughout the session, instructors discussed how Amatrol HVAC systems integrate seamlessly into existing programs, whether used as standalone HVAC trainers or in coordination with electrical, mechanical, and construction trades coursework. The modular design supports differentiated instruction, allowing programs to scale from foundational concepts to advanced applications, while aligning with credentialing pathways and employer expectations.
Equally important, the systems were recognized for their ability to improve student engagement. By combining hands-on labs with interactive eLearning, students are better prepared for lab activities, understand why systems operate as they do, and can clearly connect classroom learning to real-world job tasks.
Supporting Program Growth and Statewide Consistency
As Ohio continues to expand and modernize its HVAC and Plumbing programs, participants emphasized the value of training solutions that support program consistency, instructor onboarding, and long-term sustainability. Amatrol’s HVAC learning systems, supported locally by Buckeye Educational Systems, provide schools with not just equipment but a complete instructional ecosystem that includes curriculum alignment, professional development, and ongoing support.
The afternoon roundtable reinforced that successful HVAC programs are built through collaboration, shared resources, and instructional tools that prepare students for both employment and continued education. The Amatrol HVAC platforms showcased at the Tri-County Career Center demonstrated how schools can elevate instructional quality while meeting industry and workforce demands.
The day concluded with clear next steps and a commitment to continued collaboration across districts and regions. This workshop exemplified how Ohio’s Career Technical Education community can work together, leveraging proven instructional systems, strong partnerships, and shared expertise, to strengthen HVAC and Plumbing pathways for students statewide!