Northwest Technical Institute expects to complete the expansion of its ammonia and refrigeration training facility in Springdale, Ark., by July and start classes in the fall. Construction of the building is complete, according to a report, and crews from Multi-Craft Contractors are connecting utility services to the building. The ammonia laboratory and related systems also are being refurbished and installed. The school broke ground on the 19,800 ft² industrial building in February 2020.

Courses to be offered will include an introduction to ammonia with a focus on operation and equipment. In addition, an 11-month diploma program in ammonia refrigeration technology will train students to qualify as entry-level technicians.

The program, which currently serves about 30 students a year, could serve approximately 100 students with the expansion, according to Northwest Technical Institute. The school works with entry-level technicians from Tyson Foods, Conagra Foods, General Mills and others.