Harrisburg company opens new tech center

HB McClure has announced the opening of a hands-on technical training and technology center in Harrisburg.

The HB Tech Center, a 3,000-square-foot training facility is located at 600 S. 17th Street. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 24, at 10:30 AM. The grand opening event will include a tour of the facility and live demonstrations of the training tools.

“The HB Tech Center represents our commitment to innovation and excellence,” HB McClure President Adam Smith said in a statement. “We are proud to offer a cutting-edge facility that not only elevates the skills of our current workforce but also inspires the next generation of trades professionals.”

HB McClure is a provider of residential and commercial HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and building automation services throughout central Pennsylvania.

According to a release, the HB Tech Center is the culmination of ideas from the company’s Voice of the Field committee, a team of 12 field employee-owners. The center is designed to provide immersive, hands-on training experiences for employee-owners at all levels, empowering them to excel in their trades while meeting HB McClure’s high standards of excellence.

The HB Tech Center features the following:

• Wet Wall Simulation: A dynamic training wall that replicates water systems in real-world scenarios, enabling plumbing professionals to hone their skills in a controlled environment.
• Milwaukee Power Tool Wall: A dedicated space for familiarizing employee-owners with a variety of power tools, ensuring safe and efficient tool use.
• Mobile Training Modules: These fully functional, portable modules include power, gas, venting, and more, allowing trainees to work on systems such as rooftop units, boilers, heat pumps, furnaces, and water heaters. Modules can be easily stored and transported within the facility.
• Advanced Camera Cart Technology: Equipped with tech glasses, Instructors can broadcast close-up, real-time demonstrations on large screens or stream training sessions remotely. This technology enables collaboration between in-person attendees and field technicians, ensuring comprehensive learning opportunities.

The HB Tech Center is designed to address the growing need for skilled tradespeople by enhancing recruitment efforts for those entering the trades; providing advanced training opportunities for employee-owners at all levels; and standardizing training methods to ensure consistent, high-quality service across all departments.