Bristol and Diman Regional celebrate the inaugural class of HVAC/R training program

Bristol Community College and Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the institutions’ collaborative Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) training program on Thursday, June 25, at Bristol’s Fall River Campus.

Bristol’s HVAC/R program, hosted at Diman and taught by Diman’s experienced instructors, provides participants with practical training using HVAC tools and equipment, interactive simulations, lectures, and group discussions to develop technical skills and knowledge.

The inaugural program’s 15 graduates are now prepared for in-demand positions including HVAC installer, refrigeration mechanic, building maintenance specialist, and energy efficiency technician. Four of the graduates have already secured employment with Family HVAC in Westport, C2S Energy in New Bedford, Flex TG in Fall River, and Bristol Community College in Fall River.

“Not only are you the first HVAC/R graduating class, but you are also the first class to represent what can be achieved when educational institutions, community partners, and employers work together on a common goal,” said Dr. Sedgwick L. Harris, President, Bristol Community College. “Together, we are expanding hands-on training and opportunities that support our community and regional workforce.”

"We're creating opportunities for community members to learn valuable skills that can lead to lasting employment,” said Brian Bentley, Superintendent, Diman Regional Vocational High School. "This partnership is history in the making. The United States faces a critical shortage of skilled workers, and together we are helping meet that need by providing high-quality, hands-on training that prepares people for careers that will last a lifetime."

Bristol Community College’s HVAC/R program is part of the college’s broader commitment to workforce training and economic development. Bristol’s Economic and Workforce Solutions area will be expanding training opportunities, through support from a $1.9 million grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), with the development of an upcoming welding program and crane and hoist training program.

For more information about Bristol Community College’s HVAC/R program, visit www.BristolCC.edu/HVAC.

Bristol Community College is grounded in core values centered on student success and lifelong learning. For 60 years, Bristol has served as a leading resource for education and workforce development in Massachusetts, with locations in Attleboro, Fall River, New Bedford, Taunton, and online.

The college offers more than 100 career and transfer programs, along with flexible online learning options that lead to an associate degree, a career-ready certificate, or transfer opportunities. It also provides Dual Enrollment and Early College programs, English language instruction programs, and Adult Basic Education to support learners at all stages. Bristol’s Economic and Workforce Solutions division is a regional leader in workforce development, providing customized training for businesses and the community.

Bristol’s National Offshore Wind Institute (NOWI) delivers training in a state-of-the-art facility, offering globally recognized instruction and certifications for offshore and onshore wind energy, maritime industries, first responders, and related fields. The college prioritizes student success through comprehensive support services and career advancement opportunities that reduce barriers to educational access.

As one of the largest employers in the region, Bristol is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects a rich diversity of beliefs, cultures, languages, abilities, and lifestyles.

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