By Rory Macnamara
OTTC celebrate another ammonia graduation with five graduates.
Before the ceremony, I had the opportunity to chat with the enthusiastic young individuals who were about to graduate from their course. Their energy and passion were palpable, leaving me with a sense of optimism about the future of their industry. When asked what they enjoyed most about the course, their responses came quickly and with clear enthusiasm. One key aspect they all appreciated was learning about the dangers of refrigerants, particularly ammonia, and understanding the importance of paying close attention to detail in their work. The training also provided them with a friendly and supportive environment, which they agreed played a significant role in their learning experience. The course helped them appreciate the challenges they would face in the field, where clear thinking, adaptability and a commitment to safety are essential. They stressed that while problem-solving is crucial, it should never at the expense of their own wellbeing or the safety of their clients.
Safety was a critical theme that resonated throughout their training, with instructors consistently emphasising its importance. Alongside this, the course reinforced the need to master hand skills, a fundamental aspect of any technician’s work, which they now feel well-equipped to apply in their future careers.
The occasion also marked the launch of the 2025 calendar, an initiative from OTTC under the guidance of Isolde Dobelin and Ana-Marie. The calendar is available for purchase on their website.
OTTC, a training centre founded in 1992, has earned MerSETA accreditation and continues to provide quality education to aspiring technicians. It’s clear that with their dedication to safety, skill development and a supportive learning environment, these young graduates are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.