The Alaska Research Consortium (ARC) is partnering with iWorkWise and Alaska Sea Grant to offer a new educational program for refrigeration operators, designed specifically for seafood processors in Alaska. The program is tailored to equipment and conditions commonly found in Alaskan seafood processing operations, i.e., equipment such as plate freezers, ice machines, chillers, brine freezers, as well as seasonal operations challenges, and safety and regulatory obligations for systems both large and small. Our goal is to take mechanically skilled employees and develop them into qualified refrigeration operators in Alaska, supporting the vital needs of the industry as well as career advancement opportunities in the seafood processing sector.
This three-level program, funded in part by the federal government, will give participants a progression of skills and competencies specific to operating ammonia refrigeration systems in the Alaskan seafood industry. Level 1 is Assistant Operator 1, Level 2 is Assistant Operator 2, and Level 3 is full Operator. Each level will consist of both computer-based learning modules and a 40-hour, face-to-face intensive class, including hands on training.
Verification of understanding will be incorporated at each level. Individuals will receive a certificate after their successful completion of each level. Verified skills and competencies will be consistent across graduates of the program.
In fall 2024, the Level 2 Assistant Ammonia Refrigeration Operator training will be available, with the hands-on class held in Kodiak. Level 1 will be available again when we have a full class.
This three-level program, funded in part by the federal government, will give participants a progression of skills and competencies specific to operating ammonia refrigeration systems in the Alaskan seafood industry. Level 1 is Assistant Operator 1, Level 2 is Assistant Operator 2, and Level 3 is full Operator. Each level will consist of both computer-based learning modules and a 40-hour, face-to-face intensive class, including hands on training.
Verification of understanding will be incorporated at each level. Individuals will receive a certificate after their successful completion of each level. Verified skills and competencies will be consistent across graduates of the program.
In fall 2024, the Level 2 Assistant Ammonia Refrigeration Operator training will be available, with the hands-on class held in Kodiak. Level 1 will be available again when we have a full class.