New microcredentials bolster technical career pathways at the Mechatronics Lab in Fishkill, $2,100 scholarship opportunity available for fall 2025 

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — APRIL 14, 2025 — Dutchess Community College has introduced three new heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) microcredentials, adding to the College’s growing repertoire of career-focused offerings at its state-of-the-art Mechatronics Lab in Fishkill.  

Designed in collaboration with industry partners, the new credit-bearing microcredentials provide hands-on training in safety, electrical systems, heating and cooling principles, and system troubleshooting. They are intended to supplement DCC’s existing Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) certificate program and are suitable for students looking to advance in the field or embark on a new career in HVAC.  

The first microcredential in the series, HVAC Technician Foundation Skills I, will launch in the fall 2025 semester and be available exclusively to students enrolled in the ACR certificate program. Instruction will take place in a dedicated HVAC lab within the Mechatronics Lab in Fishkill, where students gain real-world experience with the equipment and tools used in the field. 

To support student success, those who enroll in both the ACR program and the HVAC I microcredential for fall 2025 will receive a $2,100 scholarship toward tuition and fees. Students will also receive a $500 book voucher and a $300 stipend to help offset transportation and other costs. This scholarship is available only to students who can attend full-time during the fall 2025 semester. Two schedule options will be available: a day cohort and an evening cohort.  

Additional microcredentials in the series will launch in spring 2026 and be open to all students. Learn more at sunydutchess.edu/hvac. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of HVAC mechanics and installers is projected to grow 9 percent through 2032—much faster than the average for all occupations. These positions support essential sectors such as construction, facilities management and clean energy—fields that are vital to the Hudson Valley’s economy. 

Assistant Professor of Aviation Science John Trosie played a key role in developing DCC’s new HVAC microcredentials. 

“This program was built with real industry needs in mind,” Trosie said. “We designed it to be hands-on and immediately applicable, so students leave with the kind of experience employers are looking for. It’s all about preparing them to succeed from day one.” 

“Our external partners provided critical support in the development of this program,” said Dr. Susan Rogers, chief of staff and vice president for institutional effectiveness. “With SUNY’s investment and guidance from industry experts, we were able to make strategic decisions that ensure the program delivers meaningful outcomes for students and employers.” 

“As a community college, our role is to create programs that prepare students for the workforce while offering the long-term value of a SUNY education,” said Dr. Raymond Houston, vice president for Instruction & Learning. “We’re redefining what college can look like—offering flexible options that lead to meaningful careers and uphold the academic standards our community expects.” 

“These microcredentials are a direct response to the region’s workforce needs,” said James Williams, director of Workforce Education and Development at DCC. “They give students—especially working adults—a flexible way to gain practical skills and take a meaningful step toward long-term career growth.” 

To learn more about the HVAC microcredentials and the fall 2025 scholarship, visit sunydutchess.edu/hvac or contact admissions@sunydutchess.edu. 
 

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Founded in 1957, Dutchess Community College is a two-year community college that has earned a reputation for providing an outstanding education and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New York state. The College currently has four locations including its main campus in Poughkeepsie, DCC @ Fishkill, DCC @ HVR Airport, and DCC @ the Family Partnership Center. For more information visit www.sunydutchess.edu.