Training provider Interplay Learning introduces new scalable out-of-the-box programs that help learners gain skills for in-demand jobs and connect with employers Interplay Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, today announced Interplay Academy, an out-of-the-box, easy to implement trades certificate program that provides education and workforce development organizations the tools to take learners Read more
Industry News
Training provider Interplay Learning introduces new scalable out-of-the-box programs that help learners gain skills for in-demand jobs and connect with employers
Interplay Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, today announced Interplay Academy, an out-of-the-box, easy to implement trades certificate program that provides education and workforce development organizations the tools to take learners from zero trades skills to job-ready.
With Interplay Academy, novice learners can now get accessible, high-quality online trades education with a clear pathway to gain skills in their chosen field, earn industry certifications, and connect with employers to confidently take on in-demand entry-level roles.
“Interplay Academy’s Job-Ready Certificate Programs represent a significant leap forward in skilled trades education where there is a shortage of qualified skilled labor,” said Doug Donovan, CEO and founder, Interplay Learning. “Our holistic approach provides a direct pathway to job-readiness, empowering educators and workforce development program administrators with the tools needed to pave the way to future careers for learners. We believe these programs will play a pivotal role in developing a pipeline of talent for the skilled trades workforce of the future.”
Interplay Academy’s Job-Ready Certificate Programs in HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Residential Construction, Multi-Family Maintenance, Building Maintenance, and Appliance Repair feature a flexible, expert-led curriculum, recognized by the Department of Labor, to effectively prepare today’s digital-first learners to enter the workforce. Leveraging Interplay’s award-winning immersive 3D simulations, video content and industry certifications, these programs ensure a diverse range of learners can build and reinforce foundational skills through self-paced, unlimited hands-on practice in a safe, virtual environment.
Each certificate program includes a simple, out-of-the-box implementation that provides the tools and support for educators and administrators to launch and track a scalable program with ease. Expert guidance built into the learning content and live engagement managers successfully prepare learners for future careers without the need to hire on-staff industry experts or build expensive infrastructure.
In addition to earning an Interplay Learning Job-Ready Certificate, learners enrolled in Interplay Academy’s programs can earn industry-recognized certifications, including NATE Ready-to-Work certification, OSHA 10 or 30 certifications, and EPA 608 certification, enhancing a graduate’s employability. Learners, who may need additional assistance choosing a career path, can take advantage of the programs’ career exploration tool to align their chosen path to their interests and career aspirations. When a learner completes the program, they can connect with employers through Interplay Learning’s partnership with BlueRecruit, a leading job platform for skilled trades professionals.
For more information about Interplay Academy’s Job-Ready Certificate Programs, please visit https://www.interplaylearning.com/training-academy/.
Fujitsu General America has introduced its AIRSTAGE Cloud, a platform that provides Building Management Systems as a Service. The highly versatile cloud platform provides effective and efficient monitoring, management, and maintenance of Fujitsu General’s VRF and mini split systems along with the ability to control and monitor third party equipment, including all thermostatically controlled HVAC Read more
Fujitsu General America has introduced its AIRSTAGE Cloud, a platform that provides Building Management Systems as a Service.
The highly versatile cloud platform provides effective and efficient monitoring, management, and maintenance of Fujitsu General’s VRF and mini split systems along with the ability to control and monitor third party equipment, including all thermostatically controlled HVAC systems, regardless of the manufacturer.
AIRSTAGE Cloud relies on highly automated software-as-a-service (SaaS) based software services operating in a modern Cloud-edge architecture to make it possible to avoid the costly, complex, custom design and programming tasks necessary for implementation and operation of current industry standard building management systems.
The new platform’s plug and play recognition of building equipment makes installation, commissioning and operations of AIRSTAGE Cloud BMS simple and fast, enabling HVAC contractors and facility managers to deliver a powerful BMS at a fraction of the cost of a conventional BMS. With AIRSTAGE Cloud BMS as a service, building operators and facility managers can finally cost effectively deploy a BMS for any size project.
Cloud access can be assigned to any number of parties. For example, the property owner and business staff can be added as administrative users, facilities support personnel and HVAC professionals can be added as technician users, and tenants can be added occupant users. All these user types can have different rights and restrictions as the account holder desires.
AIRSTAGE Cloud now includes two new apps, Site Manager and Refrigerant Cycle Monitor (RCM). Site Manager allows users of an account to monitor and control a complete portfolio of sites, from one site to thousands. Account access can be assigned to any number of users. For example, the property owner and business staff can be added as administrative users, facilities support personnel and HVAC professionals can be added as technician users, and tenants can be added as occupant users. In addition, a user’s access can be further customized by a sophisticated permissioning system.
RCM is a specialized diagnostic tool used to monitor and diagnose issues with AIRSTAGE VRF systems. It is predominantly used during installation and commissioning of VRF systems. It greatly reduces service times, labor, and repeat visits saving all stakeholders time and money.
Learn more at www.FujitsuGeneral.com
GE Appliances, a Haier company, Air & Water Solutions, introduced an expansion to its RealMAX Gas Water Heater line at the 2024 Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Expo in Chicago. In 2024, Air & Water Solutions will expand its atmospheric offering with ultra low NOx and power vent gas water heaters, providing options for customers Read more
GE Appliances, a Haier company, Air & Water Solutions, introduced an expansion to its RealMAX Gas Water Heater line at the 2024 Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Expo in Chicago. In 2024, Air & Water Solutions will expand its atmospheric offering with ultra low NOx and power vent gas water heaters, providing options for customers in areas with stringent emissions standards or restricted installations.
RealMAX products offer real capacity — a true 30, 40 or 50 gallons based on the model — where others round up according to DOE standards. The ultra low-NOx products offer up to four times lower emissions and will be available in standard atmospheric venting and power vent models.
“The new RealMAX models are a testament to our continued commitment to the industry, to providing unparalleled performance and to creating solutions that meet our customers’ needs,” said Tom Zimmer, executive director of water heating for GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions. “With every water heater model we carry, we’re committed to delivering maximum performance for the pro channel and distributors.”
GE Appliances made a $70 million investment in U.S. manufacturing when it opened its dedicated gas water heater plant in Camden, South Carolina, in 2022. Available in more than 20 models, RealMAX gas water heaters offer key performance and convenience features, such as:
- Real Capacity: Customers receive a real 30, 40 or 50 gallons based on the model.
- Quick Recovery: Optimized burner performance means hot water is quickly replenished.
- Easy Installation: Standard water and gas connections allow old water heaters to be replaced quickly.
- SmartShield™ Safety System: This system monitors the surrounding air and automatically shuts off the unit if abnormal temperatures are detected.
- Built-to-Last Warranty: RealMAX premium water heaters carry an 8-, 10- or 12-year tank and parts limited warranty based on the model.
For more information, visit GEAppliancesAirAndWater.com.
RIDGID®, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, announced their participation in the WWETT Show, Jan. 25 – 27, in Indianapolis. This year’s in-booth experience will include demos of their latest underground and pressing technology solutions, the opportunity to network with other pros during an exclusive show meetup and the first chance to enter to Read more
RIDGID®, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, announced their participation in the WWETT Show, Jan. 25 – 27, in Indianapolis. This year’s in-booth experience will include demos of their latest underground and pressing technology solutions, the opportunity to network with other pros during an exclusive show meetup and the first chance to enter to win a spot at the 2024 RIDGID Experience.
“RIDGID is taking cleaning, inspecting and patching to the next level and our team can’t wait to meet with the plumbers and drain cleaning professionals at WWETT to share our latest solutions,” said Jeff Albertini, marketing director, plumbing and mechanical, RIDGID. “We also can’t wait to host an exclusive in-booth meet up for industry pros to connect with each other and to offer the possibility of winning a new K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine.”
RIDGID invited tradespeople to stop by the RIDGID booth to experience their innovative drain cleaning, inspection, pipe rehabilitation, and pressing tools, including these latest solutions:
- NEW: FlexShaft® KM-1004 Milling Machine – This new innovative milling machine provides heavy-duty milling and a wall-to-wall clean on 1 ¼ to 4-inch pipe up to 80 feet with unmatched efficiency. With cordless freedom, plug-in capability, first ever cable counter, and best-in-class durability, the FlexShaft KM-1004 Milling Machine allows users to adapt to tough jobsite conditions and makes in-field serviceability effortless.
- NEW: K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine – This upgraded version of the K9-204 FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine has latches around the perimeter to provide easy access to the inside of the machine, an improved cable clamp for increased cable protection, and on-board hex key storage. The K9-204+ can be used on 2 to 4-inch pipe and includes 70 feet of 5/16-inch cable. A full range of chain knockers and accessories are available.
- RIDGID Pipe Patching System – An all-inclusive, start-to-finish solution for faster and simpler trenchless repairs, the Pipe Patching System is the most versatile system on the market, offering more types of repairs with less materials and equipment. Featuring a durable fiberglass patch, it is ideal for repairing small sections of damaged pipe in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- SeeSnake® Mini Pro Inspection Camera with TruSense Technology – The first reel of its kind to provide digital self-leveling without mechanical rotation, the small, yet rugged Mini Pro is designed to inspect up to 200 feet of 1 ½ to 8-inch pipe with its mid-flex push cable that can navigate hard 90-degree bends. Its innovative 25 mm digital self-leveling camera head always keeps the in-pipe image upright and, when
paired with a TruSense enabled monitor, the Mini Pro delivers the industry’s best in-pipe image with superior clarity, detail and fewer blown-out areas and sections of the pipe that are too dark to see. - K-4310 FXP™ Drum Machine – The K-4310 features an industry-first cable counter that provides real-time, in-pipe cable distance in 3 to 10-inch lines for faster locating and diagnostics. Ideal for residential and commercial plumbing and drain cleaning projects, its powerful brushless DC motor spins at 230 RPM allowing you to tackle tough jobs with less required maintenance. The battery-powered K-4310 is also the newest addition to the FXP Technology Platform, delivering cordless freedom and powerful performance.
Other RIDGID drain cleaning, diagnostic, and press tools will also be available for demo including sectional machines, drum machines, jetters, SeeSnake® camera systems and locators.
Along with product demos, RIDGID had several other booth experiences, including hosting a booth meetup where they will gave away a K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine. Additionally, the first day of the show kicked off the RIDGID Experience 2024 and the RIDGID WWETT booth was the first opportunity for attendees to enter for their chance to win a spot on the seventh annual, all-expenses-paid trip to RIDGID headquarters. Throughout the show, attendees scanned their badge to enter to win one of three K9-102 FlexShaft Machines.
RIDGID also took their social followers to WWETT virtually on their social channels and with drain cleaning professionals Evan Berns (@re.plumb) and Nick Parlet (@plumbingsk8r) who will shared their WWETT show experience on their social media channels too.
To learn more about RIDGID purpose-built tools they had at WWETT, contact your local distributor or visit RIDGID.com.
Expanded Water Solutions Portfolio at AHR Expo 2024 Underscores LG’s Commitment to Providing Solutions that Maximize Efficiency and Promote Decarbonization LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA is expanding its line of cutting-edge heat-pump-enabled HVAC water products at AHR Expo 2024. LG’s growing assortment of water solutions highlights the company’s dedication to delivering products that redefine comfort Read more
Expanded Water Solutions Portfolio at AHR Expo 2024 Underscores LG’s Commitment to Providing Solutions that Maximize Efficiency and Promote Decarbonization
LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA is expanding its line of cutting-edge heat-pump-enabled HVAC water products at AHR Expo 2024. LG’s growing assortment of water solutions highlights the company’s dedication to delivering products that redefine comfort, prioritize energy efficiency and champion sustainability for residential and commercial applications.
Featured at AHR Expo 2024, the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc system is the latest addition to the company’s water heating product lineup. This all-in-one unit provides ease of installation by seamlessly integrating indoor and hydronic components, using water pipes to eliminate the need for refrigerant piping. Powered by LG’s advanced heat pump technology, the R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc efficiently produces hot water for various applications, including space heating (baseboard heating, radiator, radiant floor) and domestic hot water. Incorporated noise reduction technology, such as an encapsulated compressor and vibration decoupling, operates at audio levels as low as 49B at a 1m distance.
LG’s R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc is engineered for year-round comfort, operating within versatile leaving water temperature ranges, covering cooling (41 to 80.6°F), heating (59 to 149°F), and domestic hot water (59-176°F) with a third-party booster heater. The unit maintains 100 percent heating capacity, even at 5°F outdoor temperature, with leaving temperature at 131°F, providing optimal performance in colder conditions. The product sets a new standard in HVAC innovation with reduced defrost cycles, extended operation time and intervals, providing a transformative experience in climate control for residential and light commercial spaces.
In addition to the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc, LG maintains a robust lineup of advanced water solutions that exceed expectations in eco-conscious practices and technology. Developed to meet the evolving demand for electric alternatives, LG’s water products specifically prioritize efficiency, offering cost savings through reduced energy consumption, streamlined performance, and enhanced comfort by optimizing heat and cooling retention and distribution.
“As the landscape of commercial and residential spaces undergoes a dynamic shift, LG’s HVAC solutions keep pace with the industry’s demand for quieter, more intuitive, and more eco-conscious options,” said Steve Scarbrough, senior vice president and general manager, LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA. “Embracing electrification, LG remains committed to delivering a vibrant array of products, ensuring cleaner and more efficient heating and cooling experiences. Anticipating the spotlight at AHR Expo 2024, we are excited to showcase our high-performing HVAC products, embodying innovation and setting the stage for a new era of excellence in the industry.”
Visitors at AHR Expo 2024 can explore additional hydronic solutions from LG, further emphasizing the brand’s commitment to advancing HVAC technology for a sustainable and comfortable future. Additional hydronic show products include:
LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater
LG’s Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater emerges as a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional water heaters, achieving an efficiency rating of up to UEF 3.93, surpassing ENERGY STAR® certification requirements. With potential energy savings of up to 76 percent compared to conventional electric heaters, the Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater, now available in 58- and 80-gallon capacities, minimizes reliance on supplemental electric resistance heat. Utilizing LG’s inverter heat pump technology and a Dual Inverter Compressor, it offers faster heating time in Turbo Mode and operates quietly. Aligned with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards, this water heater addresses the rising interest in electric alternatives amid efforts to promote environmental sustainability. Complete with LG ThinQ® technology, Wi-Fi capability, and smartphone control, it provides users with a unique and efficient solution.
LG High Temperature Hydro Kit
Also on display is the award-winning LG High Temperature Hydro Kit system. This system uses a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger to produce chilled or heated water. The High Temperature Hydro Kit can be used to preheat domestic water stored in an indirect storage tank, snow melt, in-floor or other radiant heating systems. This system can be used in conjunction with the Single Phase or Three-phase Multi VTM Heat Pump or Heat Recovery outdoor units. The LG High Temperature Hydro Kit can deliver hot water up to 176° F. The kit’s controllers allow flexible temperature management, and its compact design helps ease installation.
Engineers, contractors, distributors, and various trade professionals attending the world’s largest HVAC trade show can experience the latest air conditioning technologies and award-winning products and controls. Find comprehensive details about LG’s air conditioning systems portfolio at lghvac.com.