Technician-to-Engineer (T2E) Pathway

NSF ERC EARTH has partnered with Pennsylvania College of Technology (Penn College) to create a flexible pathway for experienced HVACR technicians to advance into engineering and technical leadership roles. The program builds on technicians' existing hands-on knowledge, adding advanced skills in system design, controls, and project management to prepare the workforce for evolving refrigerant technologies and industry needs.

Launched in Fall 2026, Penn College's fully online Bachelor of Science in Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Engineering Technology allows qualified individuals with an associate degree to continue their education without leaving the workforce. EARTH collaborated on the development of eight upper-level engineering courses to support online learning. The pathway builds on Penn College's established HVAC Engineering Technology program, whose campus-based bachelor's degree was among the first HVAC degrees nationally to earn ACCE accreditation.