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April 08, 2025

Triton College to Launch New Industry-Recognized Certificates this Fall

RIVER GROVE, Ill. – Triton College is expanding its workforce training opportunities this fall with the launch of new Heating and Air Conditioning (HAC) and Electric Vehicle (EV) programs, positioning itself at the forefront of industry-driven education. These programs will equip students with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience, preparing them for careers in two rapidly growing fields.

Both programs will feature state-of-the-art learning facilities (in Triton’s T Building), outfitted with industry-standard simulation technology and the latest professional equipment. 

“Local high school administrators and employers have expressed a strong demand for HVAC and EV training programs,” said Triton College President Mary-Rita Moore. “High school students can enroll in their senior year, enabling them to graduate with both a high school diploma and a workforce certificate. This early career advantage is strengthened by a curriculum developed in collaboration with industry leaders to ensure graduates have the skills employers are seeking.”

President Moore added that Triton College offers a more cost-effective and accessible alternative to technical schools for district residents.

“Triton offers not only cutting-edge learning facilities, but also clear pathways for academic and career advancement, all supported by dedicated faculty,” she said.

Heating and Air Conditioning (HAC) Program

Students in the HAC program can earn two industry-recognized certificates:

  • HVAC Installation Assistant Certificate (12 credit hours)
  • HVAC Installation Technician Certificate (above certificate plus 12 credit hours)

These stackable certificates prepare students for careers in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair, while also fostering essential workplace skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, critical thinking, time management and more.

The program also prepare students to earn their OSHA 10-HR card and EPA Section 608 Universal Certification—credentials that enhance employability.

Students who complete the program are qualified for careers as service technicians, system and maintenance technicians, specializing in diagnosing and repairing modern heating and cooling systems.

According to Lightcast, a labor analytics company, demand for HVAC professionals is projected to grow:

  • 5% (2023 to 2028) in the Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)
  • 4% in Illinois
  • 5% nationally

Electric Vehicle Technology (EV)

Students in the EV program will complete 17 credit hours in electric parts, electric wiring, system operations, safety practices, and industry ethics. The program also offers stackable certificates in electrical installation and maintenance, with the option to continue toward a Mechatronics Degree, said Andrea Blaylock, Chair of Engineering Technology.

Like the HAC program, EV students will be prepared to earn their OSHA 10-HR card.

“Graduates of the program can work for any electric company,” said Blaylock. “They can work on the EV infrastructure side that brings online electric vehicle chargers. They can work for an EV car manufacturer, such as Tesla or Rivian.”

Blaylock noted that “utility companies and municipalities realize they don’t have technicians to maintain an EV charger or the EV infrastructure. It’s a specialized market. In Illinois, Triton is one of only six community colleges that are developing an EV charger infrastructure program. As the automotive industry undergoes its largest transformation in a century, Triton's EV program places students at the vanguard of this technological revolution.”

Triton College received the Rev Up EV Community College Initiative grant, awarded by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) to support training programs that prepare individuals for careers in EV technology.   

The demand for EV technicians has surged in recent years. According to Lightcast, job postings for EV-related roles at Toyota and Volvo increased between 2015 and 2022, while Ford’s demand rose from 11% to 44% of postings.

"These new programs are part of Triton's commitment to providing career-ready education that responds directly to industry needs,” said President Moore. “Students gain not just technical skills but a competitive edge in rapidly growing fields."

President Moore encouraged prospective students to register early, as interest in these high-demand programs is expected to be strong.

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Media Contacts:

Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3692

Maryann Dibari | maryanndibari@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3202

ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE
Triton College is an institution of higher education dedicated to student success. Triton offers more than 120 degree and certificate programs designed for students to realize their career aspirations and effectively compete in a global economy. The college campus spans 110 acres in River Grove, Illinois, holds classes at satellite locations and offers online learning opportunities. Triton’s exemplary faculty and staff work to provide high-quality, convenient and affordable educational opportunities to more than 10,000 students each year. Triton College is a member of The Community Colleges of Illinois and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Learn more at triton.edu.