Thales Academy Launches HVAC Technician Certification for Seniors

The curriculum, hosted by the Luddy Institute of Technology, packs industry-standard training into a daily 50-minute class over two semesters. Students will gain credentials including EPA 608 certification, OSHA 10 training, and the CaptiveAire Paragon HVAC Factory Certified Technician status. Beyond technical coursework like duct design and electrical schematics, the program provides hands-on experience through the CaptiveAire Brazing Academy in Youngsville, North Carolina.

Bob Luddy, founder of both the school network and CaptiveAire, frames the initiative as a response to the rising costs of higher education. By positioning the certification as comparable to an associate’s degree, the school seeks to address the nationwide shortage of skilled technicians. With HVAC roles currently appearing among top in-demand jobs, the program emphasizes immediate employability, offering graduates a specialized foundation in mechanical and electrical engineering alongside a direct pipeline to apprenticeship opportunities.