Apply for the HERO Academy:
Heat Pump Installer Cohort

A paid work-based learning program for new workers seeking a career in the residential construction mechanical trades

Program Overview

The Home Energy Retrofit Occupations (HERO) Academy is a 15-week paid training program (offered by Earth Advantage) that helps new workers launch a career as a a Heat Pump Installer. You'll receive hands-on instruction, in-field mentorship, and job placement support in Portland's growing HVAC industry.

For more information on the HERO program, visit our Trainee page and attend an information session for the upcoming cohort (registration at the bottom of this page).

Program Details

Cohort Timeline: August 3 - November 12, 2026

Locations: Specialization Training will be conducted at a single location in Portland (TBD) and Work-Based Learning will happen across the Portland Metro area on job sites hosted by our contractor hosts.

Pay & Schedule: The HERO Academy is a paid ($25/hour) program requiring a 30-hour per week commitment. Participating trainees will be required to be available Monday - Thursday during business hours for the duration of the program.

Selected Trainees will take part in two phases of training:

PHASE 1: Specialization Training
August 3 - August 20, 2026
The HERO Academy begins with three weeks of hands-on classroom training. Participants will gain technical, safety, and professional skills needed to become work-ready as an entry-level heat pump installer.

• 3 weeks of intensive heat pump installation and job-readiness training (classroom & activity-based)
• Practical and technical skill development training taught by industry contractors and professionals
• Hands-on demonstrators, tool handling, job simulations and in-field job shadow opportunities
• Industry-recognized EPA Section 608 (Refrigerant Handler) course
• Training in residential sector expectations, jobsite safety, and trades-related customer service skills 
• Matching with host employers for the next phase

Trainees will be expected to fully participate in classroom training and in-field demonstrations. Attendance and participation are critical for moving into Phase 2.

PHASE 2: Work-Based Learning
August 24 - November 12, 2026
Following the Specialization phase, participants transition into temporary employment with a vetted HVAC contractor who will serve as their host trainer. During this period, trainees work on real job sites with these companies while continuing to receive mentorship, training, and peer support.

• 12 weeks of working with a contractor while continuing to learn on-the-job and receive in-field mentorship
• Perform heat pump installations under real-world learning environment while gathering exposure to job sites and field conditions
• Receive a professional grade toolkit for each trainee to use in WBL training and to keep upon graduation
• Every-other-week classroom training to refine your skills
• Coaching and career check-ins with HERO staff to provide support

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be supported by career coaches to find full-time HVAC roles. While ongoing employment is not guaranteed, HERO works closely with contractor partners to support job placement and long-term retention.

Who We're Looking For

The HERO Academy is open to motivated graduates from Portland pre-apprenticeship programs and new workers who meet minimum requirements below:

Employment Readiness

• Valid Drivers License AND reliable transportation to get to and from job sites
• GED or National Career Readiness Certificate

Construction Skills

• OSHA 10 certification
• Applied construction math & measurements
• Construction material handling (lumber, metal, insulation, etc.)
• Hand and power tool use for the professional trades
• Blueprint reading and understanding of construction documents
• Training on construction culture & workplace expectations (protocols, standard policies, professional conduct etc.)
• Strong interest in HVAC careers within residential construction

Personal Characteristics

• High motivation with demonstrated ability to take initiative 
• Able to reliably show up on-time and maintain a positive attitude
• Attention to detail, interest in learning, and the ability to engage in training
• Good communication skills, including responsiveness to emails/texts and willingness to ask for assistance when needed
• Customer service skills and a sincere desire to help community members
• Professional and respectful presentation when interacting with community members from multiple social backgrounds

Core Qualifications

• Have attended EA's "Intro to Sustainable Homes" or "Career Day" Training
• Live within the 7-county Portland Metro area
• Ability to lift 50-60lbs repetitively 
• English language proficiency
• Be at least 18 years of age

Compensation and Benefits

$25 per hour for 30 hours per week for 15 weeks (3 specialization, 12 work based learning). Access personalized career coaching, with support available for navigating potential barriers. Note that medical benefits are not included in this training program.
 

Attend an Info Session

• Attending one of the two upcoming info sessions is highly encouraged to apply for the HERO Heat Pump Installer Academy
• June 17, 2026 at 5:30 PM - Virtual Information Session via zoom
• June 25, 2026 at 5:30 PM - In person Information Session in Portland
• Register Here