From February 10 through 12, 2026, over 350 industry professionals, students, and partners gathered in Poughkeepsie, NY for the Natural Refrigerant Training Summit, a first of its kind event in the region focused on advancing sustainable refrigeration technologies and workforce development.

The summit was co hosted by New Yorkers for Clean Power, Cornell Coopertative Extension Dutchess County and the Mid Hudson Regional Clean Energy Hub, and the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council, whose national expertise and hands on training modules helped make this event possible.

Hands On Training Meets Real World Application

With support from NASRC, participants engaged in hands on, technical training designed to prepare today’s workforce for tomorrow’s refrigeration systems. For many, this marked the first opportunity to work directly with natural refrigerants like CO2 and propane in a structured training environment.

Over the course of three days:

190+ Refrigeration Technicians attended 57 rotating classes and hands-on sessions focusing on CO2, propane, and current regulations from 21 industry expert trainers.
70+ HVACR Students & Faculty participated in the Cool Futures Career Fair, where they learned about a career in refrigeration, connected with technician mentors, and gained a better understanding of the climate benefits and employment opportunities available through natural refrigeration.
70+ technicians attended a specialized half-day CO2 workshop for in-depth training on CO2 booster system remodels.

Participants left with stronger technical knowledge and greater confidence, with 98% reporting improved understanding of CO2 systems and 92% reporting increased confidence working with them

Hear what students from Cool Futures had to say:

In response to the question: After today’s session, what most excites you about a potential career in commercial refrigeration?

“I like taking things apart and putting them back together, and it’s hard work, but fun, and you tend to make a lot of money in the field.”
“The ability to contribute to the green energy movement/decarbonization. As well as earn a skill that I can take with me everywhere, and get paid well.”

Interested in a career in Clean Energy?

Whether you are a student, instructor, or job seeker who attended, registered, or were unable to make it, the Mid Hudson Regional Clean Energy Hub can connect you with NYSERDA supported opportunities, including clean energy internships, clean energy fellowships, and other workforce programs designed to help you get started in the field.

Looking for the right clean energy opportunity or support program? Our Workforce Development Team can help you navigate available internships, training programs, employer funding, and Fellowship pathways. Whether you are a job seeker, contractor, educator, or building owner, we will help you find the program that fits your goals.

Click here to get in touch with our workforce team!