RESERVE — Students from the South Central Louisiana Technical College in the air conditioning refrigeration program, under new Dean Penelope Freeman, visited the Johnstone Supply facility in Harahan.

The students gained an insight to the workings of a modern, computerized and data accessible wholesale equipment and supply store. Just as the automotive field has changed with technology, so has the business of air conditioning.

Johnstone Supply showed students the latest inverter technology, which is replacing the standard permanent, split capacitor compressors most people own at their homes. The electrical cost savings, while running, are phenomenal.

Dwayne Fabre, vice president of Sales for Johnstone Supply, welcomed the group of 10 students and SCLTC-Reserve Campus HVAC Instructor Terry Carmouche. Jim Kim, Johnstone’s Harahan Warehouse Manager for over 22 years, explained the counter sales mission is to get customers in and out of their facility efficiently, which helps business owners maximize their bottom line. The equipment warehouse is a busy hub of forklifts and workers who are selecting orders for pickup and delivery.

Students were given discounts on any tool items needed in their program, and Johnstone prepared gift bags with items they can use in the field.

Many job opportunities exist for anyone interested in the two-year program, which offers a postsecondary diploma, six employment ready certifications and an EPA Universal 608 Card to buy and handle refrigerants. For more information, call 985-536-4418, Ext 222.