Daikin Applied has broken ground on a $US30 million Solutions & Technical Institute in Plymouth, Minnesota.
From high-efficiency cooling to data centre applications, HVAC systems are becoming more advanced, and workforce capability is emerging as a critical differentiator.
HVAC technicians are in high demand highlighting the need for expanded training and hands-on experience.
Daikin Applied is investing in the people, expertise and learning environments needed to support the next generation of HVAC solutions across commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, schools, manufacturing operations, data centres and other mission-critical indoor environments, the company said.
Daikin Applied chief operating officer, Yu Nishiwaki, said the demands placed on the industry are evolving rapidly and workforce capability has become a true differentiator.
“The Daikin Applied Solutions & Technical Institute reflects our commitment to developing the next generation of technical, engineering, service and sales talent while helping our customers succeed in an increasingly complex environment. We are investing in the people, knowledge and capabilities that will power the future of our industry,” he said.
Daikin Applied executive VP of sales, service and solutions, James Moe, said customers expect systems expertise and strong execution.
"This investment will help ensure we continue to deliver on both,” Moe said.
With the goal of providing an immersive learning environment that goes beyond traditional classroom instruction, the Daikin Applied Solutions & Technical Institute is expected to open in 2027.
Designed as a centralised hub for technical, engineering, sales, leadership and customer training, the facility will help employees, partners and customers develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly advancing HVAC industry:
- Hands-On Experience: More than 50 fully functional Daikin HVAC units that enable real-world troubleshooting and system-level learning.
- Next-Generation Curriculum: Up to 120 training pathways focused on advanced controls, diagnostics, system optimization and sustainable technologies.
- Global Expertise, Delivered Digitally: A state-of-the-art digital studio extending training access to teams, customers and partners around the world.
- Purpose-Built Learning Environment: Nine classrooms and six breakout spaces supporting technical, engineering, sales and leadership development across 64,000 square feet, with the ability to expand by an additional 40,000 square feet.
“By equipping technicians, engineers, sales professionals and customer-facing teams with deeper practical knowledge, Daikin Applied is strengthening customer outcomes, accelerating workforce development and helping close critical skills gaps across the HVAC industry,” Moe said.