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NYCHA Now
HPT training program award
Exceptional Colleagues Highlighted November 2025 

Recognition of NYCHA’s Heating Plant Technician Trainee Program

Michael Corwin

NYCHA’s Learning and Development Department (L&D) was bestowed the James C. Hall Program Award by the Continuing Education Association of New York for Outstanding Business/Organization Collaboration with New York City College of Technology (City Tech), for the operation of the jointly run Heating Plant Technician (HPT) Trainee Program. This innovative job training program was recognized among several program submissions throughout New York State for delivering exceptional results: 95 percent of graduates, who are all NYCHA residents, are hired directly by NYCHA, earning competitive wages, union membership, and long-term benefits.

“This award-winning job training program is a testament to the collaboration between L&D, the Heating Management Services Department, REES, Human Resources, the Public Housing Community Fund, Con Edison (our funder), and our training partner: the City Tech Business & Industry Workforce Training Center. Together we are creating new pathways towards a meaningful career at NYCHA,” said Dr. Tischelle George, Vice President, Learning and Development.

Dr. Tischelle George, VP L&D; Javier Almodovar, VP HMSD; Anya James, Deputy Director, HMSD Training and Administration (left to right).
Vilma Aponte, Senior Program Manager, L&D (at left) with Dr. Tischelle George, VP L&D.

Featured photo caption: Kamal “Nito” Mehra, City Tech Instructor; Khadijah Frederick, Assistant Director, City Tech Business & Industry Workforce Training Center; Dr. Tischelle George, VP L&D; and Shermira Busby, Director, City Tech Business & Industry Workforce Training Center (from left to right).