Advanced Comfort Specialists, Inc. and The Wallace Group of Johnstone Supply have partnered to facilitate a $13,000 donation of high-efficiency HVAC equipment from Daikin Comfort Technologies to support the Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) student-built house project. This initiative brings together a diverse range of 22 different programs—ranging from Carpentry to Business Management & Entrepreneurship—to collaboratively design, construct, and sell a single-family home. The revenue from each sale is reinvested into the next build, ensuring a self-sustaining, workforce-driven educational model that equips students with real-world experience and career-ready skills. 

“As an alum of BCTC’s Business Management & Entrepreneurship program, I know firsthand the impact that hands-on technical education has in preparing students for the workforce,” said Gavin Milligan, Business Development Manager at Advanced Comfort Specialists, who also serves as Board President for BCTC’s Education Foundation and Chair of the HVAC program’s Occupational Advisory Committee. “Industries investing in education is essential to fueling the future workforce. Seeing so many businesses step up to support these students is truly inspiring. At Advanced Comfort Specialists, we are committed to fostering workforce development, and this partnership is a perfect example of that commitment.” 

By working directly with Daikin Comfort Technologies, The Wallace Group of Johnstone Supply helped secure the donation of two high-efficiency side-discharge heat pumps for the student-built house. These systems not only enhance the home’s comfort and energy efficiency but also provide students with exposure to cutting-edge HVAC technology. 

“This collaboration between industry and education is critical in shaping the future of skilled trades,” said Eric Weik, Regional Sales Representative at The Wallace Group of Johnstone Supply. “By donating top-tier equipment, we’re ensuring that students get hands-on experience with the same systems they’ll encounter in the field. It’s rewarding to know we’re playing a role in their training and future success.” 

The BCTC student-built house program offers students a unique opportunity to work in a real-world job site setting, applying their skills in construction, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC installation, and even business operations. These experiences prepare them for careers in the trades while reinforcing the value of technical education.

“The generosity of Advanced Comfort Specialists, The Wallace Group, and Daikin Comfort Technologies is invaluable to our students,” said Dr. Michael Stauffer, Executive Director of Berks Career & Technology Center. “Not only does this donation enhance the quality of our student-built house, but it also provides an excellent learning opportunity. These industry partnerships are key to our mission of preparing students for successful, in-demand careers.” 

Through partnerships like this, BCTC continues to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring students graduate with practical skills and hands-on training that set them up for long-term success. 

About Advanced Comfort Specialists 

Advanced Comfort Specialists, Inc. is a trusted HVAC contractor serving both residential and commercial clients throughout Berks County, PA, and beyond. We specialize in heating, cooling, and indoor air quality solutions, delivering high-quality service, innovative technology, and long-term value to homeowners, businesses, and large-scale facilities. 

Our commitment extends beyond providing HVAC solutions—we focus on building strong relationships and partnerships with the homeowners, businesses, and communities we serve. By prioritizing customer education, proactive maintenance, and customized climate control solutions, we ensure comfort, efficiency, and reliability in every project. 

In addition to our technical expertise, Advanced Comfort Specialists is dedicated to workforce development and industry education. We actively collaborate with local technical schools and training programs to support the next generation of HVAC professionals, ensuring the future of the skilled trades remains strong.