It wasn't without fanfare that Uponor revealed its newly remodeled Factory Training center in Apple Valley, Minn., Feb. 16. In fact, there were a host of visitors on tap, including Apple Valley Mayor Mary Hamann-Roland, local contractors and business leaders, distributors, vendors, manufacturer reps, and media.
   The 11,000 square foot facility, located adjacent to the company's North American headquarters, now boasts 50 percent more space along with a host of improvements such as stadium seating, a second classroom, a trainee business center, sophisticated audio/visual technology, a hands-on applications lab with working systems, an enhanced controls learning station, self-serve refreshment area and a new cafeteria.
   "It's a proud moment for us," said Joel Culp, Uponor's vice president, offerings/marketing. "We want to make sure the experience is first-class for our customers. We want to move past '101' [level curriculum]."
   High-tech and modern design aside, the training center will also see the introduction of an expanded curriculum, said Steve Lockridge, senior product manager for channel marketing. "When designing the new factory training center, we kept the contractor at the forefront of our minds," Lockridge said, noting the company began factory training initiatives in 1990. "We needed new curriculums to meet the needs of the market. We wanted to offer our business partners a comprehensive training experience that included knowledgeable instructors, the latest technology and hands-on opportunities."
   The expanded curriculum for 2010 includes: Radiant Hydronics and Design; Advanced Radiant Hydronics and Design; Advanced Design Suite; Geothermal Design and Application; Climate Control Network System; Climate Controls; AquaSAFE Levels I and II; AquaSAFE Level II.
   For class details, training dates and to register online, visit the Web site.