October 2, 2026
Grantville, PA — The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center (PPATEC) proudly recognized the accomplishments of two graduating classes in September 2026, as students completed the 400-hour HVAC & Energy Professional Program and prepared to enter the skilled trades workforce.
The September graduates represent individuals equipped with the hands-on technical knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue careers in the HVAC and energy industry. Through PPATEC’s career-focused training, students gain experience designed to prepare them for the demands of the field and the needs of employers across Pennsylvania and beyond.
The first graduating class celebrated its accomplishments on September 4. Graduates include Brady Bixler, Michael Blankenhagen, Jason Brooks, Rashaad Cook, Amiah Dolan, Ramesh Gajmer, Treyvon Garcia, Jason Hottinger, Kaleb Line, Kaden Panaro, Tyler Routledge, Austin Stiegemeier, Myiles Wiley, and Kaeleb Young.
Nine students from the first class received the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship. Recipients include Brady Bixler, Michael Blankenhagen, Jason Brooks, Rashaad Cook, Amiah Dolan, Ramesh Gajmer, Jason Hottinger, Kaden Panaro, and Myiles Wiley. Additionally, 10 of the 14 graduates secured employment placements following their training, demonstrating the program’s role in connecting graduates with workforce opportunities.
The second graduating class celebrated its completion of the program on September 25. Graduates include Brayden Archer, Brayden Bailey, Gregory Belliard, Cole Breckenmaker, Ian Culp, Mamadou Diallo, Justin Eberly, Chase Folweiler, Isaac Gelsinger, Julio Irizarry, Julian Meador, Conner Miller, Derek Mumma, Craig Myster, Logan Pierce, Emmett Prisk, Chase Rinker, Steven Rucker Jr., Talon Speck, and Malachi Washington-Lee.
Fourteen students from the second class received the Robert V. Boltz Scholarship. Recipients include Brayden Bailey, Gregory Belliard, Cole Breckenmaker, Justin Eberly, Chase Folweiler, Isaac Gelsinger, Julio Irizarry, Julian Meador, Conner Miller, Craig Myster, Logan Pierce, Emmett Prisk, Steven Rucker Jr., and Talon Speck. Following completion of the program, six students secured employment placements, while five students were sponsored by employers to attend the training.
PPATEC’s 400-hour HVAC & Energy Professional Program combines classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory training, giving students the opportunity to develop real-world skills in areas critical to success in the skilled trades. The program emphasizes technical knowledge, safety, troubleshooting, and industry-relevant training to help graduates transition confidently into the workforce.
Through scholarships, employer partnerships, and career-focused instruction, PPATEC continues to support the development of a skilled workforce for Pennsylvania’s HVAC and energy industries. By providing students with practical training and connecting them with employment opportunities, PPATEC helps prepare the next generation of skilled trades professionals to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
