This 11,000-square-foot teaching facility is dedicated to educating professionals in the radiant, plumbing and fire sprinkler industries.

Uponor senior trainer Wes Sisco (left) discusses features of the new training center as Radiant Panel Association Executive Director Ted Lowe listens.


When the newly remodeled Uponor Factory Training Center opened Feb. 16, a steel I-beam stating “Strong Products - Strong Partnerships” welcomed guests, who included contractors, distributors, vendors, manufacturer reps, government officials and media.

Located at the Uponor North American corporate headquarters in Apple Valley, Minn., the 11,000-square-foot teaching facility is dedicated to educating professionals in the radiant, plumbing and fire sprinkler industries. With 50 percent more space than the previous facility, the revamped center features stadium seating, a second classroom, a trainee business center, sophisticated audio/visual technology, a hands-on applications lab, an enhanced controls learning station and cafeteria.

“Training is the foundation of what we do,” saidSteve Lockridge, senior product manager, channel marketing at Uponor. “When designing the new factory training center, we kept the contractor at the forefront of our minds. We wanted to offer our business partners a comprehensive training experience that includes knowledgeable instructors, the latest technology and hands-on opportunities.”

The program offers an expanded class curriculum to provide attendees with greater access to up-to-date knowledge in the industry. Taught by senior trainerWes Siscoand customer trainerSteve Swanson, the factory training courses offer attendees information to design, install and troubleshoot Uponor systems and applications.

Uponor’s training program continues its commitment and support to the building professional, Sisco said. Since 1993, the program has educated more than 100,000 radiant, plumbing and fire safety professionals either at the factory or onsite via local manufacturer representatives.

“We realize the building landscape is changing with the introduction of sustainable new concepts and changes to building codes and standards,” he added. “By offering new and advanced courses to navigate the contractor through existing and emerging technologies, we are making a concerted effort to support the industry professional and improve the building market.”

The 2010 expanded course offering includes these classes:

  • Radiant Hydronics and Design (two days);

  • Advanced Radiant Hydronics with ADS (three days);

  • Geothermal Design and Application (two days);

  • Climate Control Network System (2 1/2 days);

  • Climate Controls (two days);

  • AquaSAFE Levels I and II (two days);

  • AquaSAFE Level II (one day).



    For class details, training dates and to register online, visit www.uponor-usa.com/training.