The United Association Local 525 Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) has been granted third party accreditation of its HVACR training program by HVAC Excellence, marking an important milestone in the Local’s long history of preparing a skilled and reliable workforce.

Serving Southern Nevada since 1938, United Association Local 525 has played a vital role in developing highly trained professionals in the trades. For decades, the Local has supported the region’s growth by training men and women who build, maintain, and service critical mechanical systems. As HVACR technology continues to advance with new refrigerants, smarter controls, and more complex system designs, Local 525 has remained focused on ensuring its members are prepared for what the industry demands today and into the future.

Programmatic accreditation is a rigorous third-party evaluation process that measures training programs against established, industry accepted standards. For United Association Local 525, pursuing accreditation was a deliberate step to validate the strength of its program and to reinforce its commitment to delivering high quality training that reflects real world applications.

To achieve this recognition, Local 525 completed a comprehensive self-study that examined every component of its training program, including curriculum, instructional methods, facilities, equipment, and student outcomes. This process reflects the discipline and accountability that have long defined United Association training.

Following review of the self-study, HVAC Excellence assembled an evaluation team to conduct an onsite assessment. The team, made up of experienced HVACR educators and administrators, verified that the program meets national standards and confirmed the accuracy of the Local’s submission. After careful review, the HVAC Excellence Accreditation Review Board granted accreditation.

“This achievement speaks to who we are as an organization,” said Crystal Naegle HVACR Training Coordinator for the United Association Local 525 JATC. “We have always taken pride in training that prepares our members for real work in the field. Accreditation confirms that our program meets the highest standards and strengthens our commitment to continuous improvement.”

Earning accreditation carries meaningful value for apprentices, contractors, and industry partners. It provides assurance that the training delivered by Local 525 JATC meets national benchmarks, that graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills required on the job, and that the program is supported by the resources and leadership necessary to sustain excellence. It also strengthens opportunities for career advancement, supports the recognition of training credentials, and reinforces confidence in the quality of the Local’s workforce.

The Local 525 is one of more than 250 training centers affiliated with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) represents approximately 398,000 plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, HVACR service technicians, welders and pipeliners working in North America’s construction industry.

With this achievement, Local 525 joins the Local 449 in Harmony, Pennsylvania having both earned HVAC Excellence accreditation, helping to set a strong standard for HVACR education across the industry.

As the demand for skilled HVACR professionals continues to grow, United Association Local 525 JATC remains committed to providing training that leads to careers that are essential, hands on, and built to last. Individuals interested in joining a trade that cannot be outsourced and that continues to evolve with technology are encouraged to explore apprenticeship opportunities in Las Vegas.