Ground source HVAC group takes control of training
01/01/2009
A group representing the geothermal industry has launched a comprehensive national training program. At the same time, it has distanced itself from existing programs. Our stakeholders have been very vocal that the current situation was no longer viable, said Denis Tanguay, executive director of the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC). There are too many geoexchange training programs available with little or no oversight to ensure quality of course content, delivery and examination. We also have growing evidence that the overall quality of other training programs is not up to par and, in some cases, we are deeply concerned with the fact that trainers appear to be under qualified. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) created the CGC in 2003 with assistance from the U.S.-based Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium and the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA). Members include contractors, manufacturers, utilities and municipalities. Offices are located in Montreal. Developing a comprehensive, up-to-date, flexible and made in Canada training curriculum that is fully adapted to the realities of the Canadian regulatory environment has been the cornerstone of the CGCs work for several years, said Tanguay. CGC training, developed by industry specialists over the past year, consists of four modules for drillers, installers, residential designers and commercial designers. All four must be completed to receive CGC professional accreditation. However, the group is not completely shutting the door on manufacturer and other training programs. Individuals that have completed previous training and want to be accredited by the CGC can take refresher courses and challenge the exam. The group may also recognize training from other groups under certain conditions. In all cases, however & organizations will have to demonstrate to the CGC that their training approach and material is fully compatible with the Canadian regulatory environment and that their trainers are experienced geoexchange installers and designers. More information is available on the groups web site at www.geo-exchange.ca.
Click here to access videos of interest to Canada's mechanical contractors, from trade show highlights to new product introductions, expert interviews and contractor profiles.
