Rheem has opened a 6,200-square-foot Innovation Learning Center (ILC) at its facility in Lawnside, New Jersey. Connected to the IBC headquarters and distribution center, the new state-of-the art ILC features Rheem’s largest “HOT” (Hands On Training) Room in the U.S., a product showroom and a classroom designed to provide an interactive learning experience for more than 30 in-person participants at one time. 

The ILC will offer training on all air and water, residential and commercial products across the Rheem family of brands. Customized, comprehensive training will be available for a full line-up of equipment, from tank-type, tankless and point-of-use electric water heaters as well as commercial boilers and volume water heaters. 

“The HOT room will offer the largest hands-on instruction in the Rheem Water Division, enabling us to provide in-depth training for contractors and plumbers to help us excel in an evolving market,” said Tom Wujcik, vice president of sales, U.S. Water Heating, Rheem. “As our industry shifts to decarbonization, contractors and plumbers will require a new set of skills, making this investment all the more important.” 

The ILC will serve as an immersive environment with the latest audio-visual technology, as well as tools and utility connections to allow for demonstration installations and diagnostic training. Contractors and plumbers will have opportunities to earn Continuing Education Credits and develop related skill sets. 

Rheem will host training for more than 50,000 participants at its seven ILCs throughout the U.S. in 2024.