If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your tinkering skills into a career—or just want a future-proof path after high school—Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has some exciting news for you. The government training agency has teamed up with global electronics giant TCL to launch a new program that puts students face-to-face with the latest air-conditioning and refrigeration technology, or HVAC training (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration).

This partnership isn’t just about textbooks or theory. It’s about real-world training and opening doors to employment. Through the newly built TESDA–TCL Center at the TESDA Regional Training Center–NCR in Taguig City, students now have access to fully functional training rooms equipped with TCL air conditioners, TVs, and even refrigerators. Think of it as a “tech playground” where learners can practice installing, assembling, and repairing appliances that are actually used in today’s homes and businesses.

“We are very happy to collaborate with TESDA to cultivate industry-relevant technical skills. TCL’s aspiration is to foster greatness among these students and to be a source of inspiration for all. We envision this partnership enduring for many years to come,” says Bert Cheung, TCL Philippines deputy director of Air Conditioner and B2B Business during the launch of the partnership.

In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, TESDA’s Regional Training Center-NCR Center administrator Eugene P. Agcaoili confirms that the first run of the training will open this September, with about 25 students in the initial batch. The course runs Monday to Friday for over a month, blending classroom learning with hands-on practice.

What makes this program stand out is its “enrollment-to-employment” pathway. The goal is simple: Students who complete the training don’t just graduate with skills—they’ll also have a shot at being endorsed for jobs. TCL trainers will work side by side with TESDA trainers, ensuring that every graduate carries both technical know-how and direct industry experience.

Unlike other programs that can feel exclusive, this one is designed to be accessible.

“It’s open to everyone,” Eugene said. “Our main target is usually the work-ready individuals. But we don’t limit it to just them—the purpose of our training isn’t only for employment. We also cater to those who need reskilling, upskilling, or even want to shift careers. We even welcome senior citizens since they are also our clients. As much as possible, we want to reach everyone in our communities—we don’t turn anyone away.”

That means whether you’re a fresh high school graduate, a young professional looking for a career change, or even someone who just wants to upskill, there’s space for you here. Basic requirements are minimal—TESDA only asks that participants be at least a high school graduate (or in some cases, simply able to read and write).

Interested students can apply directly at the TESDA Regional Training Center–NCR. It’s open on weekdays or you can register online through TESDA’s official website and social media channels.

For now, the focus is on HVAC training, for this is considered as one of the most in-demand skills in the Philippines today. But TCL and TESDA are also looking to expand the training and cover other appliances like TVs and refrigerators, ensuring a wider range of technical expertise for learners.

In a world where tech skills are the new currency, programs like this can be life-changing. This can prepare you for stable, in-demand jobs in the future. And who knows? After being an HVAC expert, you could go on to become an engineer, or even an entrepreneur.