In 2018, under Rob Falke’s leadership, NCI helped spearhead the development of ASHRAE/ANSI 221, an industry standard that embodies NCI’s processes for evaluating residential air distribution systems.

Guarino highlights this achievement as an example of NCI’s impact on establishing industry standards: “We are proud to contribute to standards that raise the bar for HVAC performance.”

Adapting to Digital Training in a Post-COVID World

Then 2020 happened. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted NCI to rethink its training delivery, accelerating its move toward online learning. Within weeks of the initial lock-downs, NCI launched virtual certification and recertification programs, enabling contractors to continue their professional development remotely.

“We were fortunate to be able to pivot so quickly,” Guarino says. “Now, we offer both online and in-person classes, which allows us to reach contractors where we normally wouldn’t.”

NCI’s online learning platform has become an integral part of its offerings, with a university providing courses in High-Performance HVAC principles and soft skills like customer service and sales.

This shift demonstrates National Comfort Institute’s commitment to adapting to modern challenges while ensuring contractors know the latest techniques and technologies.

In Cleveland, OH, students attend one of NCI's in-person training sessions.
Over the years, the Cleveland, OH Training Center was where a lot of
in-person, hands-on training and certification classes took place.

Unique Training Approach and Future Aspirations

NCI differentiates itself from other training organizations by teaching the technical skills required in HVAC and helping contractors apply these skills to educate customers and recommend solutions.

“We’re more than a technical training organization,” Guarino emphasizes. “We build confidence in our trained professionals, enabling them to use testing and diagnostics in all customer interactions. This approach differentiates them in their markets and helps set them up for success.”

Looking ahead, Guarino says that NCI plans to continue expanding its digital tools, such as the ComfortMaxx™ and AirMaxx™ applications, which help contractors with real-time diagnostics and performance optimization. These tools are part of a broader strategy to make testing and diagnostics more accessible and intuitive, ensuring contractors can offer the highest-quality service in the field.

Guarino sees these advancements as crucial to maintaining NCI’s role as the “essential training partner for contractors, distributors, and manufacturers” over the next decade.

Addressing Technology and Education Challenges

The HVAC industry faces a rapidly changing technological landscape, presenting challenges and opportunities. Guarino points out that new refrigerants and inverter technologies require a higher level of technical expertise, particularly in areas like airflow management, which is critical for inverter-based systems.

“Airflow has never been more important than it is now with today’s advanced equipment,” he states.

To help contractors meet these challenges, NCI continues to develop specialized training and support resources that address the nuances of modern HVAC systems.

In addition to technical changes, Guarino says the company emphasizes the importance of educating homeowners on the value of a properly installed HVAC system.

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