Inside Penn Heat Pump Pathways: What Workers Value Most About the Training
Penn Heat Pump Pathways (PHPP) launched nearly four months ago, and we’ve welcomed numerous workers into the program. Now, we’re taking a look at what they’ve had to say about their experience.
After each training, workers complete a quick survey, and the feedback is in. Beyond technical knowledge, workers say PHPP is helping them gain hands-on experience, build confidence and connections, and, for some, discover new possibilities for their careers.
Hands-On Training Stands Out
One of the clearest takeaways from the survey is that workers value the opportunity to learn by doing.
Nearly half of respondents (47%) identified hands-on experience as a benefit of the program, and 58% said it was one of the most valuable aspects of the training. Real-world applications and scenarios were also a top choice, with 42% of workers highlighting them as valuable.
Real-World Experience Makes a Difference
Instructor experience was another standout. Nearly three-quarters of respondents, 74%, said having an instructor with real-life experience was one of the most valuable aspects of the training. Workers also value real-world applications, practical system performance and diagnostics, and the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with their instructor.
One workers summed up the experience this way:
“Not to take away from the severity of the military, but this class felt like boot camp! No matter what ego (or experience) you came in with, it was broken down, relearned, and built back the confidence of the knowledge! Instructors are great, classmates were top notch! It was all around a great experience!”
This testimonial is a powerful reflection that PHPP is designed to create an environment where workers can challenge what they know, learn new skills, and leave with greater confidence.
Building Skills and Confidence
For many workers, the motivation to attend was simple: they wanted to grow. Sixty three percent said they pursued the training because they wanted to expand their skills, while 53% wanted to improve their overall job performance. Interest in energy and heat pump technology was another major motivator, selected by 37% of respondents.
Those goals appear to be translating into real benefits. Thirty-seven percent of workers said the program increased their confidence in their skills, and another 37% said it helped them expand their professional network.
One worker described their experience in a way that goes beyond traditional workforce training:
“I was in a rabbit hole trying to figure out what I was going to do with my life, and I was able to find myself and things I like, meet new people, and learn new things.”
For PHPP, that’s an important part of the bigger picture. Workforce development isn’t only about teaching a technical skill. It’s also about helping people discover opportunities, connect with others, and see a path forward.
Learning From Each Other
The classroom experience itself also is another important part of the program. One worker specifically called out the opportunity to learn from classmates:
“Class size was great because I was never in the same group. I was capable of learning and teaching from other perspectives!”
That peer-to-peer learning is key to hands-on workforce training. Workers bring different experiences, questions, and perspectives into the room, and everyone has an opportunity to learn from one another.
What’s Next for Penn Heat Pump Pathways?
The first round of worker feedback shows that there is real value in providing accessible, hands-on heat pump training, and that workers are eager for more.
Penn Heat Pump Pathways will continue using worker feedback to help shape future training opportunities and support Pennsylvania’s HVAC workforce as heat pump technology becomes an increasingly important part of the industry.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career, or even start a new one? If so, click here to apply to the Penn Heat Pump Pathways program.