Workforce Development
A three-year program that aims to recruit, train, and retain the refrigeration technician workforce needed to transition the State to ultra-low-GWP refrigerantsAbout the Workforce Development Initiative
The Workforce Development Initiative is a statewide strategy designed to build a skilled, climate-ready workforce capable of supporting the design, installation, and maintenance of ultra-low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigeration systems. Administered by the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) under its R-TRADE workforce development program, the initiative takes a holistic approach by strengthening school programs, expanding access to training equipment, supporting student recruitment, and offering modern, industry-relevant training resources.
The FRIP Workforce Development Initiative is designed to tackle the workforce shortage from every angle, connecting education, industry, and government to create sustainable, long-term solutions.
Goals and Programs
The Workforce Development Initiative features several integrated programs to address key workforce barriers across California.
For Schools and Students
HVACR School Support
This program empowers HVACR faculty to expand their curriculum to include refrigeration and ultra-low-GWP refrigerants, offering hands-on training, individual consultation, and support throughout the process. NASRC works closely with targeted schools, providing resources and guidance at no cost to participating faculty and schools. In progress.
Equipment Access for Schools
This program helps schools participating in the HVACR School Support program access ultra-low-GWP equipment to improve their students’ learning outcomes. NASRC assists participating schools in determining their equipment needs based on the established curriculum and then develops a plan to ensure ongoing access. In progress.
Refrigeration Career Fairs
This program focuses on increasing awareness and interest in refrigeration careers by hosting two career fairs, reaching students across California. The career fairs are held in conjunction with NASRC’s Natural Refrigerant Training Summit to leverage the many potential employers who participate in those events.
November 2025 in Concord, CA – Completed.
April 2026 in Irwindale, CA – Completed.
For Technicians
Natural Refrigerant Training Events
This program provides introductory-level training on natural refrigerant technologies. Multiple manufacturers and training experts offer free, vendor-neutral training that prioritizes CO2 and propane technologies.
November 2025 in Concord, CA – Completed.
April 2026 in Irwindale, CA – Completed.
Training Workshop: Improve Technician Proficiency
Building on the foundational knowledge from the training events, the Workshop offered in-depth training on key topics that are a priority to ensure a successful transition from HFCs. Completed.
December 2025 in Stockton, CA – Completed.
Online CO2 Training Course
CO2 Basics: Transcritical Booster Systems introduces refrigeration technicians to the core concepts, components, and operations of CO2 systems. Designed to lay the foundation for technicians new to CO2 and refresh existing knowledge for experienced professionals, the course is fully on-demand and accessible on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Online Troubleshooting Platform
The platform will provide technicians access to a comprehensive selection of videos and materials that address the most common troubleshooting issues they may encounter in the field. Resources will be co-developed with industry partners to enhance on-the-job skills and reduce system downtime. In progress.