COVID-19 posed new challenges for students enrolled in the 2019-2020 Manasota Air Conditioning Contractors Association (MACCA) Apprenticeship Program. Not only did the pandemic force the program to close the school and go with virtual classes for the final two months but the annual graduation celebration was cancelled as well.

Fortunately, MACCA’s Apprenticeship Program started using the Cengage digital learning and online textbook platform as an added resource for the students two years ago, allowing for a seamless transition from in-person classes to online courses. Teachers were able to hold classes via zoom and administer online homework assignments and unit testing.

2020 Apprenticeship graduates are Michael Bowers with Modern Air & Refrigeration, Frank Moraga, Kelsy Blanco and Terrance Hill with Aqua Plumbing & Air, and Tyler Wilson with Grande Aire Services Inc.

Trane Supply in Sarasota recognized the graduates by inviting them to their showroom and presenting them with Klein Tools backpacks. Johnstone Supply The Ware Group and Tropic Supply each provided $50 gift cards to the graduates.

The MACCA Apprenticeship Program has 49 students enrolled for 2020-2021: 31 in first year, 14 second year and 4 third year. They have also doubled their attendance numbers at their new North Port campus. Instructors James Rhodes, Josh Christianson, Keith Van Fleet and John Ferraro will be returning this year.