Waukegan, Illinois – In a groundbreaking initiative to bridge the skills gap and prepare students for high-demand careers, Waukegan High School has partnered with Johnson Controls, a global leader in smart building technologies, to launch a cutting-edge HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) lab. The new facility, unveiled on March 15, 2025, is designed to equip students with hands-on training and technical expertise in the rapidly growing HVAC industry.
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A Partnership for the Future
The collaboration between Waukegan High School and Johnson Controls is part of a broader effort to address the shortage of skilled workers in the HVAC and building technologies sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for HVAC technicians is projected to grow by 15% over the next decade, driven by the increasing need for energy-efficient systems and smart building technologies.
The new HVAC lab, funded by a $1.5 million investment from Johnson Controls, features state-of-the-art equipment, including:
- Smart HVAC Systems:
Advanced systems that integrate IoT (Internet of Things) technology for real-time monitoring and control. - Energy-Efficient Units:
Modern heating and cooling units designed to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. - Virtual Reality (VR) Simulators:
Immersive training tools that allow students to practice troubleshooting and repairs in a virtual environment. - Classroom and Workshop Spaces:
Dedicated areas for theoretical learning and hands-on practice.
Empowering Students with Real-world Skills
The HVAC lab is part of Waukegan High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, which aims to provide students with practical skills and industry certifications that prepare them for immediate employment or further education.
“This partnership is about more than just building a lab—it’s about building futures,” said Dr. Theresa Plascencia, Superintendent of Waukegan Community Unit School District. “Our students will graduate with the skills and confidence to succeed in a high-demand field, thanks to the support of Johnson Controls.”
Students enrolled in the program will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, such as the EPA Section 608 Certification and NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification, making them highly competitive in the job market.
Johnson Controls’ Commitment to Education
For Johnson Controls, the partnership with Waukegan High School is part of its Blueprint for Tomorrow initiative, which focuses on investing in education and workforce development to address the growing demand for skilled technicians.
“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities,” said George Oliver, Chairman and CEO of Johnson Controls. “By equipping students with the tools and knowledge they need, we’re not just preparing them for jobs—we’re preparing them for careers that will shape the future of our industry.”
The company will also provide mentorship opportunities, internships, and job placement assistance for students who complete the program, ensuring a seamless transition from the classroom to the workforce.
Impact on the Community
The new HVAC lab is expected to have a profound impact on the Waukegan community, which has faced economic challenges in recent years. By providing students with access to high-quality training and career opportunities, the program aims to boost local employment and economic growth.
“This is a game-changer for our community,” said Sam Cunningham, Mayor of Waukegan. “Not only will it create pathways to good-paying jobs, but it will also help us build a stronger, more resilient workforce.”
What’s Next?
The HVAC lab is just the beginning of a long-term partnership between Waukegan High School and Johnson Controls. Plans are already underway to expand the program to include other areas of building technologies, such as energy management, fire and security systems, and sustainable design.
Additionally, the success of the program could serve as a model for other school districts and companies looking to address the skills gap and prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.