Creating a Learning Environment: A Template for Creating and Cultivating a Learning Culture in the HVAC and Sheet Metal Industry

Cover Sheet - Creating a Learning Environment. Template for Creating Culture in HVAC & Sheet Metal

Researcher(s)

Dr. Michael J. Horman
Penn State University
104 Engineering Unit A
University Park, PA 16802
Tel: (814) 863-2080
Fax: (814) 863-4789
Email: mjhorman@engr.psu.edu

Topics

Summary

This report describes the research into creating and fostering a learning environment in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and sheet metal industry. It defines a learning culture for HVAC and sheet metal contractors, and explains how contractor organizations can create an environment that cultivates a learning culture. A competency scorecard and an example of a web-based company learning tool are included.

The report offers a variety of reasons for contractors to invest in a learning culture, including:

  • Cultivation of the company’s most important asset – its employees; and
  • Enhancing company performance at delivering high standards of products and labor, increasing profitability and repeat business.