HVAC shop training saves money, improves service Published Oct. 15, 2008 By Kevin Chandler 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Training can be cool. Fifteen members of the 97th Civil Engineering Squadron's Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning shop participated in a 4-day Advanced Air Balance training class this week. The training, provided by contracted instructors, was conducted at the base education center. Dean Thornton, the HVAC shop supervisor, secured funding for the class to allow the entire shop to receive training for the cost of sending two or three airmen elsewhere for advanced classes. Thornton believes the hands-on instruction will help HVAC personnel more effectively maintain the base's heating and air conditioning systems. "With this [training] we will provide a better living environment to all those on base," Thornton said, "and it should also reduce the amount of service calls we receive." As winter approaches, this is good news for base personnel. HVAC technicians will now be able to diagnose and repair heating systems faster and adjust systems to maintain optimal air flow inside buildings.