Santa Rosa Junior College partners with Interplay Learning to launch an accessible, immersive online HVACR certificate program.
AUSTIN, Texas — [June 17, 2025] — Interplay Learning, the leading provider of immersive skilled trades training, announces its partnership with Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) to launch a fully online HVACR Fundamentals Level 1 Certificate Program. The program, launching Fall 2025, leverages Interplay Learning’s simulation-based training platform to make HVACR education more accessible, flexible, and aligned with the latest industry and regulatory standards.
Through a collaborative effort between Interplay Learning and Santa Rosa Junior College, the online program offers four HVACR fundamental courses that can be completed in three semesters. Students will develop critical skills in heat pump technology and electrical heating and cooling, aligning with California’s initiative to switch to electric systems. This focus helps train new workers on the latest equipment while also allowing experienced professionals to upskill.
“This new program is a powerful resource for our community and the HVACR industry in California,” said Benjamin Goldstein, dean of Culinary Arts, Industrial and Trade Technology, and Construction Training Center, Santa Rosa Junior College. “By leveraging Interplay Learning’s innovative platform, we are empowering students to learn the latest HVACR systems, meet new regulatory standards, and thrive in a rapidly changing field.”
Interplay Learning’s award-winning 3D simulation and virtual reality-based platform breaks down transportation and location barriers by allowing students to learn from anywhere, eliminating the need to commute to a physical campus. The program’s flexibility supports students who may be caregivers, working full-time, or managing other responsibilities. In addition, the engaging, gamified learning modules appeal to the new generation of workers, making the training experience interactive and motivating.
“At Interplay Learning, we are dedicated to helping educational institutions bring world-class training to their students, no matter where they are,” said Doug Donovan, CEO and founder, Interplay Learning. “Partnering with Santa Rosa Junior College on this fully online program means that more students can develop real-world, job-ready skills on their own schedule and from any device, whether it is a tablet, laptop, desktop, or VR headset. This is the future of HVACR education, and we are excited to be part of this groundbreaking initiative.”
The fully online HVACR Fundamentals Level 1 Certificate Program is open to all residents of California, offered at an affordable price, and eligible for federal financial aid. Graduates of the program can step directly into the workforce in HVACR helper roles, continue their education with in-person Level 2 training at SRJC’s new Construction Training Center, or enroll in general education courses alongside the certificate to pursue an associate degree.
For more information about this new program, launching in Fall 2025, visit www.petaluma.santarosa.edu/hvacr
About Interplay Learning
Interplay Learning, the leader in immersive learning for the skilled trades, now includes Industrial Training International (ITI), the global leader in specialized industrial learning solutions. Leveraging instructor-led training, online simulations, AI, and VR, Interplay helps organizations and educational institutions upskill faster, reduce risk, and increase operational readiness. With nearly 600,000 people trained, Interplay is shaping the future of workforce development, building better careers and better lives. Visit www.interplaylearning.com to learn more.
About Santa Rosa Junior College
Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) serves approximately 6,400 students at its Petaluma campus, offering a diverse range of credit and non-credit courses across nearly 50 disciplines. With programs in HVACR, Digital Media, Veterinary Technology, and more, SRJC prepares students for fulfilling careers while supporting personal growth. The campus features modern facilities and a focus on experiential learning, ensuring students gain real-world skills and knowledge. Through innovative programs and strong community connections, SRJC Petaluma helps students turn their passions into professions. Visit www.petaluma.santarosa.edu/ to learn more.
