Our 3rd-year TAB students recently completed the build and commissioning of VFD and lighting control panels, demonstrating the advanced technical skills developed through our program. This project gave students direct experience with electrical assembly, control wiring, system integration, startup procedures, troubleshooting, and commissioning — all critical skills used in today’s mechanical, HVAC, and building automation industries.

By working on real-world control systems, students moved beyond classroom theory and gained practical knowledge in how variable frequency drives (VFDs) and lighting control systems improve energy efficiency, equipment performance, and building operations. From panel layout and component installation to testing and final startup, students were involved in every phase of the process.

Projects like this highlight the value of our program: preparing students with job-ready skills, hands-on experience, and exposure to the technologies used in modern commercial and industrial facilities. Our TAB program continues to build confident, capable technicians who are ready to contribute in the field from day one.

The 2026 Heavy Metal Summer Experience gave Sacramento-area youth a hands-on introduction to careers in the sheet metal and HVAC industries. Over four days, participants fabricated projects from flat sheet metal, experimented with HVAC service and Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) equipment, learned welding skills, explored BIM and detailing, and heard directly from apprentices, union representatives and industry professionals.

The program is already demonstrating its value as a workforce pathway, with some participants moving on to employment with local contractors. As the Sacramento region continues advancing building electrification and heat-pump adoption, programs like HMSE can help connect the next generation with the skilled careers needed to install, service, test and verify high-performing HVAC systems.