High Efficiency Energy Systems

WHES-000 High Efficiency Energy Systems

Fee: No Cost for Eligible Participants
Instruction: In-person/Lecture

Program Description

The High Efficiency Energy Systems Program, provided in collaboration with MassCEC, prepares students for careers in today’s rapidly evolving HVAC-R and clean energy industries through a comprehensive pathway that combines foundational knowledge, industry certifications, hands-on technical training, and entrepreneurship development. Beginning with an introduction to renewable energy technologies and modern heat pump systems, students progressively build skills in combustion systems, refrigeration, environmental compliance, heat pump and mini-split installation, system diagnostics, and advanced HVAC service competencies.

Designed to align with Massachusetts licensing requirements and industry-recognized certifications, the program integrates Oil Burner Technician preparation, EPA 608 certification, NATE CHP-5 training, OSHA safety credentials, and clean energy workforce readiness. Throughout every module, students gain a strong understanding of high-efficiency heat pump technologies and their growing role in sustainable energy systems.

By combining technical expertise, workplace readiness, digital literacy, safety training, and entrepreneurial skills, the program equips graduates to pursue careers as HVAC-R technicians, heat pump installers, energy efficiency specialists, or future business owners in the expanding clean energy economy.

High Efficiency Energy Systems Modules

Click on each subsection for more details.

Bridge to High Efficiency Energy Systems

The Bridge to High Efficiency Energy Systems module (140 hours) introduces students to clean energy and modern HVAC-R technologies with a focus on heat pump systems. Students learn about solar, wind, geothermal, and high-efficiency heating equipment while building essential workplace, academic, and digital skills. This course prepares learners for advanced technical training and careers in the growing clean energy workforce.

Oil Burner Technician Test Prep & Certificate (BPV & 527 CMR 01)

The Oil Burner Technician Test Prep & Certificate module (200 hours) prepares students for Massachusetts licensing requirements in oil burner systems. It covers combustion systems, fire safety codes, electrical diagnostics, and troubleshooting. The course also introduces heat pump and mini-split fundamentals, helping students understand how traditional heating systems connect to modern high-efficiency technologies. This builds the skills needed for today’s evolving HVAC and clean energy workforce.

Refrigerant and Coolant Test Prep & Certificate (EPA 608)

The Refrigerant and Coolant Test Prep and Certificate module (100 hours) prepares students for the EPA 608 certification while teaching the fundamentals of refrigeration systems, refrigerant handling, environmental regulations, and diagnostics. The course also connects these principles directly to heat pump technology, helping students understand system performance and efficiency. Graduates gain essential skills needed for heat pump installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Heat Pump & Mini-Split Installation

The Heat Pump & Mini-Split Installation module (80 hours) provides comprehensive hands-on instruction in heat pump and mini-split installation, operation, diagnostics, efficiency optimization, and maintenance. Students gain practical experience with modern heat pump systems, refrigerant charging, wiring, airflow, and system commissioning to prepare for industry-recognized heat pump credentials.

NATE CHP-5 (Test Prep & Certificate)

The NATE CHP-5 module (100 hour) prepares students for certification across five key areas: fundamentals, electrical and controls, comfort and airflow, installation, and service. The course emphasizes heat pump systems throughout, showing how they operate within HVAC design and how they differ from traditional equipment. Students gain the skills needed to install, service, and troubleshoot modern heat pump systems and become industry-ready technicians.

Future Trades Entrepreneurship (OSHA-30)

The Future Trades Entrepreneurship module (100 hour) teaches students the business and management skills needed to start or support an HVAC or contracting business in the clean energy sector. Topics include cost estimating, project management, marketing, contracts, and financial planning, along with OSHA certification. Students also explore business opportunities in heat pump installation, maintenance, and energy-efficient services, preparing them to succeed in a growing industry.

Program Details

Fee: Free including books and materials

*Additional Funding Sources

This course may be eligible for funding for qualified Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients as well as additional funding available under other grants. Please email Alisa Feliberty at afeliberty2601@stcc.edu. Please refer to the USDA Non-Discrimination Statement.

Is there an enrollment deadline for this course?
Yes, we close enrollment 2 weeks before the start date of the class?

Are there a limited number of seats available for this course?
Yes, there are only 8 available seats per class session.

Do I need a high school diploma to take this course?
No, you do not need a high school diploma to take this course, but it is preferred.

Is there any age requirement for this course?
Participants must be 16 years or older to attend this course.

Do I need to be a MA resident to take this course?
Yes, you do need to be a MA resident to take this course and be eligible for grant funding. 

Is there grant eligibility for this course?
Yes, this course is funded through a grant. We will contact you to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for this course. 

Is this a SNAP/DTA eligible program?
Yes. If you receive SNAP benefits through DTA you may be eligible to take this course. 

Do I need to take an intake assessment before I start this course?
No

Are there any health requirements needed to take this course?
No

Do I need to complete a background check (CORI) prior to taking this course?
No

Are there any prerequisites (i.e. courses, work experience) needed to take this course?
There are no prerequisites to join the Bridge to High Efficiency Systems module. However, all following courses do have prerequisites so please review each of the individual module pages for specific information. 

Are course materials required for this course? If so, are course materials an additional cost?
All course materials are provided to students at no additional cost.

Refund Policy

Withdraw prior to the start of class* - 100% Refund
No Refunds will be given once class begins

In the absence of a written third party contractual agreement stating otherwise, all refunds will be issued to the student. Credit card payments will be refunded directly to the credit card if processed within thirty days of the payment.

Course Cancellation Policy

The STCC Workforce Training office reserves the right to cancel any course that does not meet minimum enrollment requirements.

Student Handbook Policies

As a participant in this program/course, I understand that I am bound by all the rules, regulations, and policies of STCC as outlined in the Springfield Technical Community College Student Handbook.

Enrollment and Contact

To apply for this program, please submit the High Efficiency Energy Systems Inquiry Form, and one of our Recruitment and Retention Specialists will contact you promptly. For all other questions, please use the contact below.

The STCC Workforce Development Center
Building 27, Second Floor