Events & Training
Efficiency Vermont cannot endorse specific products or vouch for the safety of products. Training materials and content covered during the training represent the manufacturer's opinion, not Efficiency Vermont's.
2024
Construction Business Basics (12 weeks)
Sessions will be held weekly via Zoom, every Tuesday from February 6th through April 23rd from 3:00-5:00 pm
Join HELM Construction Solutions as we kick off 2024 with Construction Business Basics.
This 12-week online course covers all the essentials of running your own construction business. With our focus on the Triple Bottom Line (People, Planet, and Prosperity), the consulting team at HELM is ready to help you assess where your company is today, create a vision for the future, and take action to make your business more efficient, productive, and profitable. Construction Business Basics is designed for small business owners and members of your management team who are looking for a solid grounding in the basics of running a successful construction business. We developed the Basics as an introduction to the most frequently asked questions we get from our consulting clients, in a format that allows us to share the knowledge and resources we’ve gained over the years with multiple companies simultaneously.
- We ask that all participants plan to join the Zoom session 5 minutes before the scheduled start time so we can begin promptly.
- Each session will be 2 hours long, with a combination of presentation, small group discussion, and Q&A.
- Each weekly Zoom session is paired with a homework assignment to help you apply what you are learning to your own business and develop your vision and action plan.
- Each homework assignment will take roughly one and a half hours to complete.
At the end of the 12-week Basics series you will have: A 5-year vision for your business, with goals and actions to get you started A 2024 operating budget template to calculate the target gross profit margin for your business Access to the HELM Resource Library, with articles specifically curated for construction business owners and templates to help you manage your business activities and improve your performance Recordings and presentation materials from the Basics sessions for future reference A personalized one-on-one session with one of HELM’s business consultants.
Presenters: Tia Garcia, Kate Stephenson, Paul Eldrenkamp & Jeanette Millard
2024
Certificate in Building Science and Net-Zero Design (Online)
Building science refers to the analysis and collected understanding of how physical phenomena – including heat, moisture, air movement, and gravity – affect buildings. It provides a body of knowledge allowing for system and design details to account for these forces and to use them in our favor to maximize comfort and minimize energy use. Net zero energy design – the strategy in which applied building science principles guide a low-energy durable structure coupled with on-site renewable energy production to offset total energy consumption – is now well within reach. Through lecture, case study, demonstration, design exercises and hands-on experience, students will gain a firm grasp of the science behind building performance, and begin to explore how to design in accordance with the laws of physics and the forces of nature. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to a real project through hands-on exercises. If you are a designer, builder, project manager, property owner, or policy professional, or are moving toward one of these careers, a firm understanding of building science and the path to net zero buildings is fast becoming a critical credential for any successful practitioner.
ONLINE: New in 2024, this program will take place in a hybrid format. We will meet virtually on Mondays and Thursdays from 6-9pm between March 11 - April 5, 2024 to cover building science fundamentals, solar orientation, mechanical systems and super insulation.
IN-PERSON: We will meet in person on the Waitsfield VT campus from April 8-19, 2024. The in person portion will be dedicated to net zero design and hands on, applied building science.
More information is available in the course syllabus. 140 AIA LU/HSW approved
2024
Basics of High Performance Building (2 Part Training)
Builders are in colossal demand, now more than ever, and the key lies in high-performance expertise. Embrace the chance to reshape the world through our top-notch High Performance building course. Become a visionary force, conquering environmental challenges, and leading the charge for sustainable solutions. In this housing revolution, your skills will be prized like never before.
Our exceptional courses empower you to create efficient, eco-friendly havens, igniting the path towards a brighter future. Unite with industry experts and champion the cause of change. With our guidance, you'll wield the transformative power to tackle Vermont's housing crisis head-on. Seize the opportunity, redefine your impact, and be the catalyst for a greener, better world. The time is now – learn High Performance building from the best!
This course gives students an introduction to the scientific laws and principles that govern the movement of heat, water, and air; it then brings those concepts to bear on the assessment, design and execution strategies of modern high-performance building and renovation practices. Students will take away a basic understanding of the mechanisms of heat, moisture, and air transfer within and through building envelopes, as well as the ability to apply that understanding in the context of daily work with the systems and assemblies that are common to modern high-performance building. The course includes introductory hands-on experience with modern building assessment tools and equipment, as well as pen-in hand experience identifying control layers on architectural drawings.
2024
Basics of High Performance Building (2 Part Training)
Builders are in colossal demand, now more than ever, and the key lies in high-performance expertise. Embrace the chance to reshape the world through our top-notch High Performance building course. Become a visionary force, conquering environmental challenges, and leading the charge for sustainable solutions. In this housing revolution, your skills will be prized like never before.
Our exceptional courses empower you to create efficient, eco-friendly havens, igniting the path towards a brighter future. Unite with industry experts and champion the cause of change. With our guidance, you'll wield the transformative power to tackle Vermont's housing crisis head-on. Seize the opportunity, redefine your impact, and be the catalyst for a greener, better world. The time is now – learn High Performance building from the best!
This course gives students an introduction to the scientific laws and principles that govern the movement of heat, water, and air; it then brings those concepts to bear on the assessment, design and execution strategies of modern high-performance building and renovation practices. Students will take away a basic understanding of the mechanisms of heat, moisture, and air transfer within and through building envelopes, as well as the ability to apply that understanding in the context of daily work with the systems and assemblies that are common to modern high-performance building. The course includes introductory hands-on experience with modern building assessment tools and equipment, as well as pen-in hand experience identifying control layers on architectural drawings.
2024
Natural Refrigerant Training Summit - Pittsburgh, PA
Co-hosted with Steamfitters Local Union 449 Technology Center, this event will provide comprehensive training on CO2 and propane from multiple manufacturers and industry experts. This event is open to ALL refrigeration technicians (union and non-union). Local HVACR students and faculty are also invited to join us for a networking session to increase exposure to natural technologies and build industry connections. This free, 3-day in-person event will include: Concurrent technician trainings on CO2 and propane from multiple manufacturers and industry experts. Access to live CO2 mobile training systems. Exhibit hall featuring the latest natural refrigerant products and service offerings. Local HVACR student & faculty networking event to build industry connections.
Weatherization Pays You Back
Want to know how your home can save you $? Join local home energy efficiency experts for a panel discussion, followed by 1:1 Q&A sessions, to hear tips and ideas on how to improve the comfort of your home while reducing energy bills.
- Home insulation and air sealing info and incentives for all income levels.
- Food provided by local caterer Chef Nadav.
- Childcare provided.
- Prizes to be won!
Panel presenters and Q & A discussion:
- Bekah Kuster - Efficiency Vermont
- Mark Snyder - Eff. VT. Home Energy Auditor
- Bill Chidsey - Ventilation Professional and Eff. VT. Home Energy Auditor
- Craig Taylor - Craftsbury Energy Committee and homeowner who weatherized their home
- Erik Schulz - NEKCA Green Savings Smart and Financial Coach
- NETO - Free Weatherization for Income Qualifying households.
- Rural Edge - Affordable Housing, Education, and Financing
- Window Dressers - Window Inserts inexpensive energy-saving application
Register at Greensboro Library 802-533-2531
Energy Resilience Informational Meeting for Rental Property Owners
Rental Property Owners are invited to learn how local organizations can help reduce energy costs associated with managing residential rental properties. For more information and to reserve your spot please email [email protected] (RSVP by 3/15/24). Sponsored by the Town of St. Johnsbury and St. Johnsbury Energy Committee.
Learn what these organizations can do for you:
- Efficiency Vermont
- Town of St. Johnsbury RHIGP
- Vermont NETO
- RuralEdge VHIP
- 3E Thermal
- HEAT Squad
Leveraging Change: Grid Evolution as we "Electrify Everything
Join us for a conversation about how the grid will need to evolve as we "Electrify Everything". Speakers will include Rebecca Towne (Vermont Electric Co-op), Serge Abergel (Hydro-Québec), and Sarah Adams (ISO-NE). Kerrick Johnson from VELCO will moderate the conversation. We will also have plenty of time for Networking. Light food and non-alcoholic beverages will be supplied by Hugos, and there will be a cash bar. (Note that the venue is not ADA accessible, as it is up 2 flights of stairs. We will share a recording with anyone who is unable to attend).
2024 CBES - Training Series: Multifamily Buildings (1.5 AIA LU/HSW)
Join our Efficiency Vermont team for a Vermont Residential Building Energy Standards (CBES) training series. Basic building science knowledge and building design will be beneficial for the attendee but, should not discourage anyone with interest from participating.
Folks attending this training can anticipate to:
- Learn compartmentalization and strategies to meet multi-family CBES requirements
- Understand electric vehicle charging requirements and when they apply based on building size, and other factors.
- Learn efficiency package option requirements and how to navigation them based on client interests.
- Understand what CBES Stretch Code is, when it applies to multi-family buildings, and how to comply with the requirements.
1.5 AIA LU/HSW approved
Beer for Builders- Switchback
Join the VBRA and others to enjoy beer with builders! Appetizers will be provided by the VBRA. Cash Bar.
Webinar: Pre-Construction
The gold standard for a good pre-construction process is that no one is caught by surprise throughout. Surprises during pre-construction—typically having to do with budget or schedule, sometimes having to do with permitting or other hurdles—risk derailing projects or canceling them altogether, often resulting in expensive damage control or bad feelings all around (or both). This webinar will offer key strategies and practices to reduce the chances for deal-breaking surprises during pre-con and maximize the chances that the construction phase will be set up for success.
Presenter: Paul Eldrenkamp
Ready, Set, Scale- Sizing Matters: Air Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps have come a long way, especially in cold-weather performance. However, system sizing and selection practices have not always kept up with the wide range of applications commonly found in cold climates. NEEP has a solution to share – improved sizing tools that can enhance system performance, comfort, efficiency, and savings. Join us to explore the ways sizing does matter. Hear from states about how they utilize the NEEP ccASHP Sizing Tool V2.0 to support proper system sizing and selection. Also learn how this latest version of the sizing tool can be leveraged by state heat pump programs and beyond to ensure quality installations. The Ready, Set, Scale. webinar series focuses on the mechanisms key to rapid, equitable decarbonization of the regional commercial and residential buildings sector. Join us all year long for discussions, analysis, and peer learning around collaborative, multi-state approaches to transform the energy efficiency market.
Stiebel Eltron - Air to Water Heat Pump training
This in-person training will offer a chance to meet air to water manufacturer sales reps and engineers. You'll have a chance to review equipment specs, and ask detailed installation, operation and troubleshooting questions. We will be teaching the WPL condenser and HSBC all in next ne unit. Attendees can expect to learn appropriate applications, and building types where these will fit. Attendees will also learn proper sizing and installation procedures. Space is limited to 16 so be sure to reserve your seat today!
VT RBES 2024: Compliance options –Package Plus Points, REScheck, HERS Rating, and RBES Certificate
Vermont Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES): Training Series
Join our Efficiency Vermont team for a 2024 Vermont Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) training series. AIA continuing education credits available.
TOPIC: Compliance options – Package Plus Points, REScheck, HERS Rating, and RBES Certificate (1 AIA LU/HSW) Basic building science knowledge will be beneficial for the attendee but, should not discourage anyone with interest from participating. Vermont's energy codes are regularly updated to make sure we are on track to meet our "net zero energy ready construction by 2030" statewide goal. Revised versions of the Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) and Commercial Building Energy Standards (CBES) are effective July 1, 2024. This session will review the new energy 2024 RBES, significant changes, and compliance options. Learn the overview on how to complete the RBES certificate depending on compliance path chosen. Understand building system and component requirements for package plus points compliance Learn step by step procedure of HERS rating process Understand general performance modeling data points for ResCheck and HERS
Succession Planning Part 3: Preparing Your Business for Handoff
You might be ready to move on, but is your business prepared? If you want to sell your company, it must be profitable first. If it’s not, all you have is a fire sale! During this session, we will cover how to bring your next generation of leadership up to speed on the business side of the company. The better your team is, the more your company will be worth. We will also cover business valuation and methods of getting your money out of the company. This webinar is the final installment in a three-part series from Bill Kinnard, President of Grandy & Associates, on the critical but often-ignored subject of succession planning. Don’t miss it!
Learning Objectives:
- Understand why and how to maximize your team & operations to prepare for sale
- How to set valuation for your business
- How to leverage profit from the sale of your company
2024
10HR OSHA
To receive certification attendees must attend both days in person. OSHA 10 The 10-hour Construction Industry Outreach Training Program. Our course is designed to teach an entry level construction worker about workplace safety specifically for the construction industry. Students will learn about: Hazard recognition - Avoidance - Abatement - Prevention In addition to learning about safety and health hazards in the workplace, students will also learn about OSHA, employer responsibilities, and worker rights. OSHA recommends Outreach Training Program courses as an orientation to occupational safety and health for workers to reduce injuries and save lives. Workers should receive additional site specific training where required by OSHA standards.
Build America, Buy America (BABA): overview for Vermont Building Professionals
Build America, Buy America established a domestic content procurement preference for federally funded construction projects. The Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will provide an virtual overview of Build America Buy America (BABA) for Vermont community development building professionals. BABA will have a significant impact Vermont construction projects utilizing federal funding resources. This informational session will cover key technical aspects of BABA, and help building professionals prepare for implementation. All residential development, construction, building trades, and building contractor professionals are encouraged to attend. Construction industry service providers such as design, architecture, engineering and legal professionals should also be prepared to support BABA implementation. The session will include relevant information for contractors, trades professionals, architects, engineers, building material suppliers, and developers. Session Presenters: Ann Kroll, DHCD Federal Programs Director Maxwell Krieger, Esq., DHCD General Counsel Patrick Scheld, DHCD Administrative Services Manager
2024
Better Building by Design 2024
The 2024 conference theme is Blueprint for Equity: Energy Efficiency & the Future of Building. Blueprints are foundational to putting design into action. Achieving a design that provides benefit without undue burden requires forethought and engagement. Leading with equity can build a strong workforce, save energy, improve health and safety, and further energy resilience while reducing energy burden.
Join Efficiency Vermont as we explore the topic of access and discuss equity’s place in Better Building by Design. This conference offers several opportunities to gain professional continuing education credits. Hear From the Experts Find out what works, what doesn’t, and what you can put into practice immediately through the research and experience of nationally recognized leaders in the field. Strengthen Your Competitive Edge Learn the latest techniques and technologies for superior building performance, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. Make Key Contacts Network with the region’s top design and construction professionals who share your commitment to quality construction, energy efficiency, aesthetic integrity, occupant health and comfort, and environmental stewardship. Sponsor Trade Show. See the latest energy-efficient product and service innovations for the design and construction industry. Speak with service providers and manufacturers’ representatives about cutting-edge techniques, materials, equipment, and systems for superior building performance, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.
Best of the Best Winners of Efficiency Vermont’s Best of the Best Awards will be honored during the conference. Browse among inspiring plans, drawings, and photos of the award-winning homes and buildings from the design competition.
2024
HVAC Design Training: Tools for High Performance Building Design
Level 1: 4/15-4/19/24
Level 2: 4/29-5/1/24
As the HVAC industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. That's why our virtual HVAC Design trainings are designed to provide you with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in HVAC system design. Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to refresh your skills or someone new to the field, these virtual courses cater to all levels of expertise.
Key Benefits of Our HVAC Design Virtual Training:
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Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned professionals with extensive experience in HVAC design.
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Interactive Sessions: Engage in real-time discussions, Q&A sessions, and practical exercises.
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Flexibility: Access the courses from the comfort of your home or office, eliminating the need for travel.
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Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in HVAC design.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry experts, and potential collaborators
HVAC Design: Level I – Essentials provides intensive, practical training ideal for recent technical or engineering school graduates, engineers new to the HVAC field, those who need a refresher in new technologies, and facility managers, sales representatives and others who want to gain a better understanding of HVAC fundamentals, equipment and systems.
HVAC Design Level II – Applications provides instruction in HVAC system design for experienced HVAC engineers and those who have completed the HVAC Design: Level I – Essentials. The training covers the technical aspects of design and allows participants an opportunity to expand their exposure to HVAC systems applications to increase energy savings and improve indoor environmental quality.
First Aid/ CPR/ AED
First Aid / CPR / AED The OSHA First Aid Standard requires trained first-aid providers at all workplaces of any size if there is no infirmary, clinic or hospital near the proximity of the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees. No written test / skill based assessment / low stress learning environment American Heart Association Heartsaver® First Aid CPR/AED course covers CPR/AED for adults and children and First Aid, including relief from choking, seizures, heart attack, diabetic emergencies, allergic reactions, EpiPen use, burns, bites, poisoning, broken bones, bleeding control, bandaging, glove removal, temperature-related emergencies, and how to aid with other life-threatening conditions. This course is for new or renewing/recertifying students.
Course length: 4.5 hours
Certification: American Heart Association - Official 2-year certification card given at class
Confined Space Training
Confined Space (4 hour course) OSHA’s new rule on confined spaces in construction is in full effect as of October 2nd. This training video covers the changes in this rule. Construction and general industry employees both need to know about confined space entry rules and how the old and new standards relate to each other. Make sure your team stays safe in confined spaces, and keep compliant with the new OSHA regulation.
This course is available in person or online.
Topics covered also include:
- Permit-Required Confined Space regulations
- Testing for hazardous atmospheres
- Making a space as safe as possible
- Step-by-step approach to safe entry And more!
8:00 AM to 11:45 AM 1/2 Day Course
VT RBES 2024: Deep Dive into the Points Table and Examples of Points Options (1 AIA LU/HSW)
Basic building science knowledge will be beneficial for the attendee but, should not discourage anyone with interest from participating. Vermont's energy codes are regularly updated to make sure we are on track to meet our "net zero energy ready construction by 2030" statewide goal. Revised versions of the Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) and Commercial Building Energy Standards (CBES) are effective July 1, 2024.
This session will review the new energy 2024 RBES, significant changes, and compliance options. Learn about the Package Plus Points compliance options, and how that gives builders flexibility. Learn how simplification of packages applies to Base Code and Stretch Code and how points are factored in. Understanding how to read the R402.1.2.1, R402.1.2.2, and R402.1.2.3 points tables. Learn how to apply the points options your project design plans.
2024
Fundamentals of Pre-Construction and Project Management (7 Weeks)
Join us for an interactive deep dive into the fundamentals of good pre-construction and project management practice. This 7-session virtual series will include hands-on exercises, tools, and templates to support emerging project managers and estimators.
Tuesdays from 3:00-4:30pm.
We are limiting registration to 20 participants to keep the group small and allow for lots of discussion and small group breakouts. Attending all sessions in real-time is strongly encouraged, however, we will be recording the sessions.
Refrigerant Recovery Best Practices
In this training Hudson Technologies, the largest buyer in the U.S. of used refrigerants, will demonstrate how to recover refrigerant from HVAC efficiently, completely and safely. This training will include a detailed explanation of the configuration of hoses and valves, how to prepare a tank for recovery, important features of high performance recovery equipment and tips on how to speed up the recovery process. Step-by-step recovery procedures will be shown. Regulations that apply to refrigerant recovery and reuse will be explained. As a buyer of recovered refrigerants Hudson works to prevent refrigerants that are super potent greenhouse gases from being released into the atmosphere. Attendees will learn what happens to recovered refrigerants, how to sell used refrigerants for reclamation and how to protect the quality of recovered refrigerants so they can be reclaimed.
Presented by: Brian Justice- Director of Sales for Hudson Technologies
Effective Coaching and Mentoring
Support Your New and Experienced Staff Coaching and mentoring staff are important ways you can retain top talent and build a leadership pipeline. But many people don’t even know that they are two different things! Coaching focuses on enhancing current job performance. Mentorship can reduce and reframe personal, structural, and cultural barriers that hold emerging leaders back from achieving their full potential. Both are important. Why should you make time to coach and mentor employees? Not only will it empower your staff and enhance company effectiveness; it also changes how well others think of you. People who mentor and advocate for others are perceived as more effective leaders. Even your most talented employees will benefit from supportive coaching and mentoring. Don’t leave top performers to languish while you work with staff who struggle! Great leaders need to be mentored, and great leaders need to mentor. Join us to learn how with Chris DeVany, global business coach with Pinnacle Peak Performance.
In this session you’ll learn to:
- Understand the Coaching Strategy Spectrum and how to make it work for your team
- Coach effectively, using relating, strategizing, and implementing
- Practice the stages of a coaching relationship, including giving constructive feedback
- Understand and use the essentials of mentorship
- Know the challenges of coaching and mentoring experienced staff and how to succeed