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(HERO) Academy 

Job-Ready Training. Robust Support. Real Career Opportunities.

The HERO Academy — offered by Earth Advantage — is a paid, 15-week workforce training program that prepares pre-apprenticeship graduates for high-demand jobs installing energy-efficient heat pump and water heating systems in homes across Portland, Oregon. 

Designed to address workforce shortages and support communities underrepresented in the residential construction industry, HERO connects highly motivated and trained new workers with leading local contractors — from day one of training to end-of-program employment connections as Ductless Heat Pump or Water Heater Installers.

Trainees are paid $25/hr (minimum 30 hrs per week) during the entire program while they complete specialized job-readiness training, gain hands-on experience in the real-world, and receive personalized support every step of the way. HERO graduates are equipped with the skills, confidence, and connections to start a full-time career in this growing residential construction and clean energy field.

What Makes HERO Unique?

• $25/hr wage offsets for the entire 15-week program (covered by HERO)
• Free $2,500+ toolset for every graduate that is theirs to keep
• Real-world work-based learning (WBL) hosted by trusted and knowledgeable Trainer Partners
• Dedicated career transition support and hiring events
• Based in Portland, Oregon and focused on providing equitable access to well-paid residential construction careers

How to Get Involved

Trainees

If you’re a pre-apprenticeship graduate looking for a new career path in residential construction or the mechanical trades — HERO is your opportunity to gain paid, hands-on experience while building the technical skills needed for in-demand, high-road jobs as either a Ductless Heat Pump or Water Heater Installer. These careers offer:

• Family-supporting wages and growth opportunities
• Opportunities for advancement in HVAC, plumbing and energy efficiency
• Job security in a growing sector backed by state and federal investments
• A sense of purpose in helping your community reduce energy costs and carbon emissions

Employers

Ready to grow your team with highly-trained, job-ready talent? HERO graduates have gained extensive technical training installing ductless heat pumps or water heaters in real-world scenarios. HERO makes it easy to grow your crew and company without the typical risk or overhead. By engaging as an Employer Partner, you can:

• Meet and evaluate trainees during the HERO program 
• Provide professional development opportunities for your current staff by inviting them to participate in select HERO training sessions and in-field mentorship activities (ex. EPA 608 certification)
• Hire graduates who’ve been trained and mentored in the field by top instructors who are contractors themselves
• Access wage subsidies through our WorkSource OJT partner
• Gain recognition as a leader in Oregon’s residential and equity-focused workforce efforts while meeting your business needs