Mark Vender
On World Refrigeration Day in June, the Kirby Apprentice Fund celebrated its first anniversary. The fund accumulated $6,065 in donations with 83 HVAC&R apprentices registered across 63 companies.
The fundraising efforts made by Kirby staff, customers and suppliers CPS, Supercool Group, Testo, Fieldpiece, HLP Controls, Danfoss, Emerson, Tesuco, Sauermann, VetoProPak and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, have enabled the fund to distribute inaugural packs containing trade tools, maintenance product, merchandise and literature valued at over $450 each to every apprentice registered up to June 30, 2020.
South Australia and Northern Territory-based Sims Refrigeration was one business that embraced the intent of the fund early and registered nine apprentices.
“Sims was pleased to have supported the Kirby Apprentice Fund through the purchase of Kirby T-shirts,” says owner David Sims. “Kirby is an active industry member, having trained our technicians in CO2 systems technology, so it made sense to support them in this excellent initiative. I encourage all business owners to register their apprentices and support the Kirby Apprentice Fund.”
Kirby developed the fund to support HVAC&R trade apprentices with easier access to trade tools and skills training. CO2 systems training webinars and additional supplier product training will be conducted throughout the remainder of the year to enhance skill development.
“The effort made by all parties has resulted in a commendable contribution to strengthening our trade,” says Kirby communications lead Elizabeth Paparo, Affil.AIRAH.
“The recipient apprentices have shown gratitude for their packs that would not have been possible without the generosity of our suppliers. Their willingness to be part of this initiative in tough economic times demonstrates their commitment to our industry apprentices.
“Kirby looks forward continuing to build the fund over the coming years.”
For more information on the Kirby Apprentice Fund, click here.
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