Skip to content
SUNY GCC - Genesee Community College

EPA 608 Certification

Under the regulatory framework outlined in 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F, pursuant to Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, individuals engaged in the maintenance, servicing, repair, or disposal of equipment capable of emitting ozone-depleting refrigerants into the atmosphere are mandated to obtain certification. Commencing January 1, 2018, this requirement extends to appliances containing most substitute refrigerants, including HFCs.

To attain Section 608 Technician Certification, technicians must successfully pass an EPA-approved test tailored to the specific type of equipment they intend to work on. These tests are administered exclusively by EPA-approved certifying organizations. Notably, Section 608 Technician Certification credentials have a perpetual validity and do not expire.

This comprehensive course spans three full days, featuring in-depth presentations and practice tests on day one and day two. On the third day, a review session is conducted in the morning, followed by testing in the afternoon.  The course includes practice tests for each of the four sections of the certification test: CORE, Type I, Type II, and Type III. After reviewing each section, practice tests are administered, corrected, and utilized for further review and study.

Successful completion of the CORE section with a passing grade is a prerequisite for certification in any of the three types. Achieving passing grades in all four sections grants participants a lifelong UNIVERSAL EPA 608 Certification. The course also includes lunch and snack breaks, although food is not provided.

EPA 608 Certification

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition 
Fall 2024 Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 11/19/2024 -11/21/2024 9:00 am – 3:30 pm (30-minute lunch) Bill Hayes $300
Spring 2025 Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 3/11/2025 -3/13/2025 9:00 am – 3:30 pm (30-minute lunch) Bill Hayes $300

Email bestcenter@dos5.net to be added to our contact list for our next course offering.

Instructor: Bill Hayes

Bill Hayes, an industry veteran with 40 years of experience in the HVACR Skilled Trades, has joined GCC’s BEST Center as the instructor for the upcoming HVACR program, Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration. Holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology with a specialization in Air Conditioning design and management, Bill’s career began with eight years at a mechanical contractor in Buffalo, NY, before acquiring a Batavia, NY-based HVACR operation in 1991. In 1997, he expanded his expertise by establishing a HVACR supply house with Sheet Metal fabrication. Bill’s hands-on approach in the early years included fieldwork in HVACR service and installation. Upon retirement from Mechanical Contracting, his company grew to employ 30 individuals with a fleet of 20 vehicles. Bill brings a wealth of knowledge backed by numerous trade certificates and active involvement in professional societies and service organizations. For the past decade, Bill contributed to HVACR education in New York State, providing instruction through Alfred State College’s partnership with the NYS CSEA organization. Holding a certification as an EPA-608 Proctor through the ESCO Institute, Bill’s commitment to education aligns with the BEST Center’s mission to offer comprehensive services and certifications.

Mechatronics

Mechatronics, Phase 1: Industrial Electronics

Mechatronics, Phase 1: Industrial Electronics focuses on electronic and electrical theory, principles and applications and students develop familiarity with using a wide variety of electrical measuring equipment. Students must have a strong background in electronic and mechanical skills in an industrial environment.

September 2024 – January 2025

Course Timeline

Topic Approximate Hours
 Electronics/Electricity Class Room Training 55
Instrumentation Review and Practical Applications 20
Practical Electrical Theory, Soldering and Electronic Project Build and Test Class 64
Total Hours (varies depending on student/company needs) 139

Mechatronics, Phase 2: Industrial Controls and PLCs

Mechatronics, Phase 2: Industrial Controls and PLCs covers interpreting electrical prints, building, testing and trouble-shooting electronic panels and related practical applications. Real-world electrical prints of machine tools used in manufacturing plants and factories are utilized throughout the course. Students also gain an understanding of the techniques and mathematics behind wire sizing, properly sizing conduit and mathematically creating angles and proper bends in electrical-metallic tubing (EMT). Students must have passed Mechatronics, Phase 1: Industrial Electronics or have equivalent skills and experience.

September 2024 – January 2025

Course Timeline

Topic Approximate Hours
Electrical Print Review, Panel Build/Test and Practical Applications 40
 PLC Theory/Fundamentals and PLC Soft Simulator Debugging 40
PLC Practical Application and Troubleshooting Class 60
Total Hours (varies depending on student/company needs) 140

Mechatronics, Phase 3: Advanced Industrial Controls

Mechatronics, Phase 3: Advanced Industrial Controls is designed to maximize PLC and machinery trouble-shooting skills. Key areas include advanced PLC applications and controls’ theory using a fully-functional, scaled-down “Factory Automation Simulator.” The system consists of 4 main factory areas: (1) automated warehousing stacking & storage systems; (2) heat treatment & processing system, complete with turn-table & post-process milling station; (3) laser color sorting & batching system; and (4) 3-axis robotic loading/unloading station with a vacuum-end effecter for parts-handling. Students will gain skills on this multiple-PLC-controlled system featuring system-wide (PLC to PLC) Ethernet IP communication. Students will debug these complex systems using PLCs, panel views and laptops. The main learning objective is the theory, implementation and practical, hands-on understanding of PLCs, their associated electrical devices and how they function and interact with the system’s mechanical hardware. Students must have passed Mechatronics, Phase 2: Industrial Controls & PLCs.

September 2024 – January 2025

Course Timeline

Topic Approximate Hours
Introduction to Tag Based PLC programming/Creation and loading of HMI screens 56
 Introduction to Industrial Networking of PLC controls, PLC Ethernet IP addressing and configuration 24
 Practical application & debug class on 2- and 4- station PLC robotic controlled factory simulator 56
Total Hours (varies depending on student/company needs) 136

Advanced AC Motors & VFD Course

The primary learning objective of this program is the Theory, Implementation and Practical understanding of Variable Frequency Drives and AC Motors and how they function and interact with each other and the mechanical systems that they drive. In addition we cover methods to debug and analyze these systems when they fail using proper test equipment and methods. This will be an instructor-led class building on the concepts of both our Phase 1 Industrial Electronics & Phase 2 Industrial Controls & PLC Class, which is a prerequisite to this program. Students must have passed Mechatronics, Phase 1: Industrial Electronics and Mechatronics, Phase 2: Industrial Controls & PLCs.

September 2024 – December 2024

Course Timeline

Topic Approximate Hours
Implementation and practical understanding of Variable Frequency Drives and AC Motors 20
Methods to debug and analyze systems when failure occurs 40
Building on Phase 1 & Phase 2 concepts 36
Total Hours (varies depending on student/company needs) 96

Motor Controls, Transformers & Power Systems

This is an instructor-led class building on the concepts of Advanced AC Motors & VFD.  The primary learning objective of this program is for students to further advance their understanding of Motor Controls and associated devices as they apply to the industrial world. The students will be taking an in-depth look into the application and associated affects of variable frequency drivers, motors, transformers and other non-linear loads and studying their collective effects. Students must have passed Advanced AC Motors & VFD.

Practical Applications in Industrial Electrical Work

This course introduces the students to basic principles of electricity with an emphasis on their use in residential and light commercial applications. The student will build and test electrical circuits, learn electric symbology, read, and draw schematics, measure voltage, current, resistance and capacitance using a multimeter, construct electric circuits, and be introduced to various motor types and motor controls. The lab portion of this class will also include identification of wire gauge, color, and insulation, working with conduit and fittings, the application of basic electrical codes, craftsmanship, constructing and troubleshooting parallel and series circuits, customer service and safety.  This course is great for entry level technicians, homeowners and DIY individuals.

Practical Applications in Industrial Electrical Work

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition Cost
Fall 2024 through Spring 2025 Monday 9/9/2024 – 5/19/2025 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm Mark Pratt $3,199

Email bestcenter@dos5.net to be added to our contact list for our next course offering.

Instructor: Mark Pratt

Mark is a master electrician in the City of Rochester. He has 28 years of experience in the I.B.E.W. as a service tech, a foreman, and is currently a full-time instructor at the Rochester Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee in Rochester. As an instructor, He teaches 2nd year and 4th year apprentices.

CNC Machining: FANUC Robotics

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Join our comprehensive FANUC Robotics HandlingTool Operation and Programming course and become a certified expert in one of the most sought-after skills in the robotics industry!

What We Offer:

• In-Depth Online Modules: Learn through our expertly designed online modules that cover everything you need to know about FANUC Robotics HandlingTool Operation and Programming.

• Hands-On Training: Gain practical experience through 32 hours of immersive training, including 24 detailed laboratory exercises that simulate real-world scenarios. • Expert Instruction: Receive guidance from seasoned professionals who bring years of industry experience to help you master the tools and techniques.

• CERT I Industry Credential: Stand out in the job market with the prestigious FANUC Robotics CERT I credential, recognized and respected by employers worldwide.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your professional skills and open doors to new career possibilities. Enroll now and take the first step toward becoming a FANUC Robotics HandlingTool Operation and Programming expert.

FANUC Robotics

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition Cost
Fall 2024 T, W, Th 10/15/2024 – 10/30/2024  4:00 pm – 8:00 pm Tim Gleba $2,226

For course information and funding availability, email Christa Palmer at capalmer@dos5.net or call 585-345-6868.

Instructor: Timothy Gleba

Tim brings over 11 years of manufacturing and teaching experience to the instructor position.  Tim is a Manufacturing Engineering for a global leader of industrial metallurgical processing systems.   Tim’s experiences and education includes CNC Machining (FANUC / Haas), Industrial and Collaborative Robotics (FANUC / Universal Robotics), Industrial Automation and Process Controls (Rockwell Automation), Industrial Engineering Technology, Lean Six Sigma and NFPA70e to name a few.  In Tim’s spare time he enjoys traveling with his wife Amanda and their three dogs Gus, Pappy and Remi to the Adirondack high peaks region or heading out west visiting Las Vegas.  Additionally, Tim is a passionate conservationist and sportsman.  He is a member of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and NYS Forest Owners Association.

CNC Machining: FANUC Milling

Step into the future of manufacturing and automation with our comprehensive FANUC Control Training Milling course. Designed for operators, technicians, engineers, and programmers, this course equips you with the essential skills to set up and program FANUC 30i/31i/32i Model A&B controls, as well as 0i Model D and F.

What You’ll Gain:

• Expert-Led Online Modules: Access in-depth online learning materials that cover every aspect of FANUC controls.

• Hands-On Experience: Engage in 32 hours of practical training, including 24 detailed laboratory exercises that simulate real-world applications.

• Industry Credential: Earn the esteemed FANUC Machine Setup, Programming and Machining certification, a credential that opens doors to advanced career opportunities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your professional skills and open doors to new career possibilities. Enroll now and take the first step toward becoming a FANUC Machine Setup, Programming and Machining expert.

FANUC CNC – Milling

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition Cost
Fall 2024 Sa, Su 9/7/2024, 9/8/2024, 9/14/2024, 9/15/2024 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Tim Gleba $2,226

For course information and funding availability, email Christa Palmer at capalmer@dos5.net or call 585-345-6868.

CNC Machining: FANUC Turning

Unlock your potential with our in-depth FANUC Control Training course, meticulously designed for operators, technicians, engineers, and programmers. Master the setup and programming of FANUC 30i/31i/32i Model A&B controls, and 0i Model D and F, through a blend of online learning and hands-on experience.

Course Highlights:

• Comprehensive Online Modules: Dive into detailed online content that covers all the essentials of FANUC control systems. • Hands-On Training: Engage in 32 hours of practical, hands-on training with 24 lab exercises that mirror real-world scenarios.

• Industry-Recognized Credential: Earn the prestigious FANUC Machine Setup, Programming and Turning certification, showcasing your expertise to employers.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your professional skills and open doors to new career possibilities. Enroll now and take the first step toward becoming a FANUC Machine Setup, Programming and Turning expert.

FANUC CNC – Turning

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition Cost
Fall 2024 T, W, Th 9/24/2024 – 10/9/2024  4:00 pm – 8:00 pm Tim Gleba $2,226

For course information and funding availability, email Christa Palmer at capalmer@dos5.net or call 585-345-6868.

Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration I

Ready to Master Basic Refrigeration? Are you eager to gain hands-on experience in Basic Refrigeration before stepping onto a job site? Or perhaps you’re already working in the field of Refrigeration but could use a refresher to stay at the top of your game? We have the perfect course for you!

Acquire comprehensive knowledge in residential split systems, encompassing both furnace and heat pump technologies. Enhance your understanding through hands-on instruction using state-of-the-art Refrigeration Trainers as practical learning equipment.

Unleash the Power of Our iConnect Basic Refrigeration Trainer: Our brand-new iConnect Basic Refrigeration Trainer is a game-changer! Visualize the refrigeration process with sight glass tubes at the evaporator and condenser inlet and outlet, explore color-coded valves and gauges, manipulate hand valves to bypass various components and transition from cooling to heating, observe refrigerant and oil conditions under different operating methods, watch refrigerant flow to the evaporator, regulated by capillary tubes, automatic expansion valves (AXV), or thermostatic expansion valves (TXV).

Spring 2024 Course Information

Genesee Community College, Batavia Campus

Basic Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 1

Semester/Year Day Dates Times Instructor Tuition Cost
Fall 2024 Tuesday & Thursday 10/15/2024 – 11/14/2024 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Bill Hayes $1,599
Spring 2025 Tuesday & Thursday 2/4/2025 – 3/06/2025 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Bill Hayes $1,599

Course Contact Hours: 18
For course fee and funding availability, email Christa Palmer at capalmer@dos5.net or call 585-345-6868.

Instructor: Bill Hayes

Bill Hayes, an industry veteran with 40 years of experience in the HVACR Skilled Trades, has joined GCC’s BEST Center as the instructor for the upcoming HVACR program, Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration. Holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology with a specialization in Air Conditioning design and management, Bill’s career began with eight years at a mechanical contractor in Buffalo, NY, before acquiring a Batavia, NY-based HVACR operation in 1991. In 1997, he expanded his expertise by establishing a HVACR supply house with Sheet Metal fabrication. Bill’s hands-on approach in the early years included fieldwork in HVACR service and installation. Upon retirement from Mechanical Contracting, his company grew to employ 30 individuals with a fleet of 20 vehicles. Bill brings a wealth of knowledge backed by numerous trade certificates and active involvement in professional societies and service organizations. For the past decade, Bill contributed to HVACR education in New York State, providing instruction through Alfred State College’s partnership with the NYS CSEA organization. Holding a certification as an EPA-608 Proctor through the ESCO Institute, Bill’s commitment to education aligns with the BEST Center’s mission to offer comprehensive services and certifications.