Efficiency First California

IHACI: NATE Certification Training Series - Core: Part 2 (Electrical Skills)
2026-05-21 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | SCE Energy Education Center, 6090 N. Irwindale Ave, Irwindale
Description: (In-Person / Irwindale)
Join the growing number of professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the HVAC/R industry by becoming certified by NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nationally recognized certification program for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration technicians, and it is the only test supported by the entire industry. More customers are placing a high priority on locating a certified expert and NATE certification help HVAC professionals keep a competitive edge.
This series of seminars are specifically designed to help experienced HVAC professionals prepare for successfully completing the NATE Certification Exam. For the convenience of working professionals, these classes are held on weekday evenings and will be followed by an opportunity to complete the NATE Exam on a Saturday. There will be a fee for the NATE exam; however, there is no charge for the preparation series. This important training opportunity is offered as part of IHACIs commitment to provide exceptional service. Attending the entire eight-part series is strongly suggested.
Core 1 (General Skills) and Core 2 (Electrical Skills)
NATE Core Modules 1-2: This two-night course is both an introduction to the heating, ventilating and air conditioning industry and a review of the personal and business skills needed to succeed in this industry. The introduction covers HVAC terminology, proper use of tools, mechanical principles, and electricity and wiring diagrams. The review includes communication skills, mathematics, science, working skills, HVAC careers and safety.
Course Objectives:
• Prepare HVAC professionals to successfully complete and pass the NATE Certification Exam.
Target Audience:
• HVAC/R Technicians / Contractors
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s and/or Glendale Community College credits. For information contact IHACI at 818-551-1555.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
5:00pm check-in and dinner. Class starts at 6:00pm.

NCI: Residential HVAC System Performance Certification Program Part 1 – The Key Elements of HVAC System Performance
2026-06-02 08:00 - 17:00 | NCI – Anaheim, 2050 S Santa Cruz St., Ste 1000,, Anaheim, California
Two-Day Workshop Dates: (In-Person / Anaheim)
Part 1 – Tue June 2, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
Part 2 – Wed June 3, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
To register online & more information CLICK HERE or call 800-633-7058
Description:
In this two-day certification course, HVAC professionals will learn how to discover and repair hidden energy-draining comfort system defects, reduce call-backs and increase customer satisfaction. Attendees will learn NCI’s exclusive System Delivered BTU method, test both new and existing installations and provide real solutions through system renovations and documented results.
Part 1 will review a typical HVAC system and examine static pressure and airflow measurements, diagnostics, and repairs to improve system performance. Learn static pressure, airflow, and temperature testing principles along with verifying BTUs at the equipment and registers.
Day 1 Course Objectives:
• Review the typical sales call and its shortcomings
• Overview of test methods to identify performance issues
• Test instruments review – the good, the bad and the ugly
• Testing principles of static pressure, airflow and temperature
• Airflow testing and verification methods
• Static pressure measurement – a key diagnostic tool
• Measuring dry bulb temperatures and diagnostic properties
• Understanding total system performance
• Introduction to ComfortMaxx™ QuickTest™ software*
Target Audience:
• Energy Improvement Contractors
• Energy Raters
• HVAC Contractors / Professionals
• HVAC Technicians
• NCI Certified Air Balancers
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s, BPI & most State CEUs.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic, and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions: (Must attend both days unless re-certifying)
This class is *fee-based $100 and includes Parts 1 & 2, workbooks and lunch. For re-certification, you must attend Part 2 (*fee-based $50/class only, no exam).
Registration: To register by phone contact NCI Customer Care at 800-633-7058.
To register online & more information CLICK HERE
Visit NCI Training Schedule at http://www.ncilink.com/sceschedule
Please Note: *Must work within SCE territory to qualify for reduced registration fee as stated. Training is open to contractors outside of the SCE territory, however, full registration fee is required to participate in this program.

Avoiding Main Panel Upgrades - Part 1: Demystifying & Calculating Loads on Your Main Panel
2026-06-02 10:00 - 12:00
Description:
This is part 1 of a 2 part class.
Understanding your main electrical panel is essential for the transition to an electrified home. This session simplifies the components of the main electrical panel in a home. It will explain prescriptive and performance-based load calculations to determine whether a main panel upgrade is necessary. It also covers load management techniques and how power-efficient appliances can reduce demand on the electrical panel.
Learning Outcomes:
As a result of attending this class you can expect to learn the following

Differences between prescriptive ‘bottom-up’ and performance-based ‘actual measured’ load calculations
How to assess the need for a panel upgrade based on load calculations
Techniques for managing electrical loads using power-efficient devices to avoid unnecessary upgrades
How to calculate and understand the electrical capacity of your main panel

Target Audience:

Engineers
Contractors
Electricians
Home Energy Consultants

Prerequisite(s):

N/A

Learning Units:

N/A

Instructor Information:
Spencer Rosen
Spencer Rosen has been in the clean energy industry for over 20 years and has a laundry list of home energy certifications. He has run his own home energy audit and whole-home upgrade company, Energy Integrity, for approximately 8 years.
He has been in many homes, crawled around in attics, removed low-efficiency materials and equipment, sealed leaks, upgraded windows, replaced ducts, added insulation, upgraded heating + cooling systems, and installed solar energy and battery systems.
To increase his impact, he began participating in various rebate and advocacy programs and developed these home energy courses to empower people with the knowledge to make their homes perform better.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
This is a live webinar presented via Microsoft Teams and internet access is required & participation via the Microsoft Teams App is encouraged.

NCI: Residential HVAC System Performance Certification Program Part 2 – Measure, Diagnose and Improve Poor System Performance
2026-06-03 08:00 - 17:00 | NCI Anaheim, 2050 S. Santa Cruz St., Suite 1000,, Anaheim, CA, 92805, United States
Two-Day Workshop Dates: (In-Person / Anaheim)
Part 1 – Tue June 2, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
Part 2 – Wed June 3, 2026 (8am – 5pm)
To register online & more information CLICK HERE or call 800-633-7058
Description:
In this two-day certification course, HVAC professionals will learn how to discover and repair hidden energy-draining comfort system defects, reduce call-backs and increase customer satisfaction. Attendees will learn NCI’s exclusive System Delivered BTU method, test both new and existing installations and provide real solutions through system renovations and documented results.
Part 2 will cover test methods, calculations and measuring airflow using NCI’s 3 test methods: Static Pressure with Fan Tables, Balancing Hood, and Duct Traverse. Attendees will learn temperature, humidity, and enthalpy measurements along with equipment BTUs versus delivered BTUs. The day will conclude with NCI’s exclusive Residential HVAC System Performance certification exam.
Day 2 Course Objectives:
• Review of test methods, measurement and calculations
• Temperature, humidity and enthalpy measurement
• Equipment BTUs versus delivered BTUs at the registers
• Measuring airflow using NCI’s 3 test methods: Static Pressure/Fan Tables, Balancing Hood and Duct Traverse
• Rating operating HVAC system performance
• Sharing findings with customers in easy to understand terms
• Air distribution system renovation and repair
• Review ComfortMaxx™ QuickTest™ and full test-in and test-outsoftware*
Target Audience:
• Energy Improvement Contractors
• Energy Raters
• HVAC Contractors / Professionals
• HVAC Technicians
• NCI Certified Air Balancers
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s, BPI & most State CEUs.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic, and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions: (Must attend both days unless re-certifying)
This class is *fee-based $100 and includes Parts 1 & 2, workbooks and lunch. For re-certification, you must attend Part 2 (*fee-based $50/class only, no exam).
Registration: To register by phone contact NCI Customer Care at 800-633-7058.
To register online & more information CLICK HERE
Visit NCI Training Schedule at http://www.ncilink.com/sceschedule
Please Note: *Must work within SCE territory to qualify for reduced registration fee as stated. Training is open to contractors outside of the SCE territory, however, full registration fee is required to participate in this program.

Avoiding Main Panel Upgrades - Part 2: Advanced Solutions & Technologies to Maximize Panel Capacity
2026-06-03 10:00 - 12:00
Description:
This is part 2 of a 2 part class.
With increasing demand for electrification, strategically avoiding main panel upgrades offers significant advantages. This class covers innovative solutions to maximize panel capacity including 120-volt appliances, smart panels, load management systems and power control technologies. Participants will learn how to calculate and manage back-feed from solar and storage systems and the use of digital solutions to safely extend the capabilities of their existing electrical infrastructure.
Learning Outcomes:
As a result of attending this class you can expect to learn the following

How to implement smart electrical panels and load management systems to maximize panel capacity
Strategies for using 120-volt appliances to reduce demand
Techniques for calculating and managing back-feed from solar and storage systems
Applications of advanced digital solutions to extend existing panel capacity.

Target Audience:

Engineers
Contractors
Electricians
Home Energy Consultants

Prerequisite(s):

N/A

Learning Units:

N/A

Instructor Information:
Spencer Rosen
Spencer Rosen has been in the clean energy industry for over 20 years and has a laundry list of home energy certifications. He has run his own home energy audit and whole-home upgrade company, Energy Integrity, for approximately 8 years.
He has been in many homes, crawled around in attics, removed low-efficiency materials and equipment, sealed leaks, upgraded windows, replaced ducts, added insulation, upgraded heating + cooling systems, and installed solar energy and battery systems.
To increase his impact, he began participating in various rebate and advocacy programs and developed these home energy courses to empower people with the knowledge to make their homes perform better.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
This is a live webinar presented via Microsoft Teams and internet access is required & participation via the Microsoft Teams App is encouraged.

NCI: The High-Performance Approach to Heat Pump Retrofits
2026-06-04 08:00 - 17:00 | NCI – Anaheim, 2050 S Santa Cruz St., Ste 1000,, Anaheim, California
Description: (In-Person / Anaheim)
The surge in heat pump demand, driven by electrification and energy efficiency goals, is reshaping the HVAC landscape. But retrofitting with heat pumps isn’t plug-and-play. Inverter systems, dual fuel integration, and cold climate performance all introduce new levels of complexity beyond traditional replacements.
Join this targeted training to gain the essential skills to:

Assess challenging retrofit scenarios with confidence
Design and specify equipment that delivers optimal performance
Evaluate and improve existing duct system and home performance to support a successful heat pump retrofit
Install advanced heat pump systems to industry-leading standards
Commission systems for efficiency, comfort, and long-term success

Equip yourself to lead in the next chapter of HVAC innovation, because high-performance retrofits aren’t just possible, they’re profitable.
Course Objectives:
• Capitalize on the growing market for inverter heat pumps and electrification
• Follow NCI’s System Performance Evaluation and sales process
• Decide whether it makes sense to use a heat pump in specific applications
• Recognize problems in homes and ducts systems that compromise heat pump performance
• Accurately size and select the right heat pump for different situations and climates
• Commission and verify your high-performance retrofits with confidence
Target Audience:
• HVAC technicians with an understanding of NCI testing principles
• HVAC Owners, managers, comfort advisors
• HVAC System designers
• Installers and commissioning technicians
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for 8 NATE CEU’s, 4 BPI CEU’s & most State CEUs.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class:
Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
This class is *fee-based $50 and includes workbooks and lunch.
Registration: To register by phone contact NCI Customer Care at 800-633-7058.
To register online with NCI & more information CLICK HERE
Visit NCI Training Schedule at http://www.ncilink.com/sceschedule
Please Note: *Must work within SCE territory to qualify for reduced registration fee as stated. Training is open to contractors outside of the SCE territory, however, full registration fee is required to participate in this program.

IHACI: NATE Certification Training Series - Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps: Part 1 (Introduction)
2026-06-10 18:00 - 21:00 | SCE Energy Education Center, 6090 N. Irwindale Ave, Irwindale
Description: (In-Person / Irwindale)
Join the growing number of professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the HVAC/R industry by becoming certified by NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nationally recognized certification program for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians, and it is the only test supported by the entire industry. More customers are placing a high priority on locating a certified expert and NATE certification help HVAC professionals keep a competitive edge.
This series of seminars are specifically designed to help experienced HVAC professionals prepare for successfully completing the NATE Certification Exam. For the convenience of working professionals, these classes are held on weekday evenings and will be followed by an opportunity to complete the NATE Exam on a Saturday. There will be a fee for the NATE exam; however, there is no charge for the preparation series. This important training opportunity is offered as part of IHACIs commitment to provide exceptional service. Attending the entire eight-part series is strongly suggested.
Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps: Part 1 (Introduction) and Part 2 (Installation & Service)
NATE A/C & Heat Pumps Part 1 (Introduction): will review the mechanical refrigeration cycle and provide an introduction to air conditioners and their components. Also discussed will be reverse-cycle heat pumps and their similarities and differences with standard air conditioners.
Course Objectives:
• Prepare HVAC professionals to successfully complete and pass the NATE Certification Exam
Target Audience:
• HVAC/R Technicians / Contractors
Learning Units :
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s and/or Glendale Community College credits. For information contact IHACI at 818-551-1555.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
5:00pm check-in and dinner. Class starts at 6:00pm.
Attendees:
Please register for each seminar individually. Attending the entire eight-part series is strongly suggested.
Reservations will be held 15 minutes following the start time above. After this time your seat may be given to a waiting customer.

IHACI: NATE Certification Training Series - Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps: Part 2 (Installation & Service)
2026-06-11 18:00 - 21:00 | SCE Energy Education Center, 6090 N. Irwindale Ave, Irwindale
Description: (In-Person / Irwindale)
Join the growing number of professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the HVAC/R industry by becoming certified by NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nationally recognized certification program for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians, and it is the only test supported by the entire industry. More customers are placing a high priority on locating a certified expert and NATE certification help HVAC professionals keep a competitive edge.
This series of seminars are specifically designed to help experienced HVAC professionals prepare for successfully completing the NATE Certification Exam. For the convenience of working professionals, these classes are held on weekday evenings and will be followed by an opportunity to complete the NATE Exam on a Saturday. There will be a fee for the NATE exam; however, there is no charge for the preparation series. This important training opportunity is offered as part of IHACIs commitment to provide exceptional service. Attending the entire eight-part series is strongly suggested.
Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps: Part 1 (Introduction) and Part 2 (Installation & Service)
NATE A/C & Heat Pumps Part 2 (Installation & Service): will focus on air conditioner and heat pump equipment installation and service procedures.
Course Objectives:
• Prepare HVAC professionals to successfully complete and pass the NATE Certification Exam
Target Audience:
• HVAC/R Technicians / Contractors
Learning Units:
Qualified individuals may be eligible for NATE CEU’s and/or Glendale Community College credits. For information contact IHACI at 818-551-1555.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
5:00pm check-in and dinner. Class starts at 6:00pm.
Attendees:
Please register for each seminar individually. Attending the entire eight-part series is strongly suggested.
Reservations will be held 15 minutes following the start time above. After this time your seat may be given to a waiting customer.

2025 Title 24 Requirements for Residential Lighting
2026-06-23 09:00 - 12:00
Description:
This beginning class is for those who design, specify, install, and/or inspect lighting installations in new and remodeled homes. Class participants will gain an understanding of the 2025 energy code requirements for residential lighting under Title 24, Part 6, as well as understand changes that have been implemented in the 2025 energy code cycle starting January 1, 2026. The curriculum includes an overview of current lighting technologies, such as high efficacy luminaires and controls options, and how these products must meet the certification requirements of Title 20 (Appliance Standards) and JA8 (LED high efficacy requirements of Title 24, Part 6). The course will review a variety of products available and how to identify if products are “certified”.
Learning Outcomes:

Review the 2022 & 2025 Title 24, Part 6 mandatory measures for lighting in new and remodeled residential space
Learn how to identify lighting technologies including high-efficacy LED luminaires that fulfill code requirements
Access resources through utility and lighting technology training centers for continued professional development
Identify available products and determine whether they are certified

Target Audience:

Building Departments
Energy Consultants
Contractors
Lighting Distributors
Residential Designers
Lighting Manufacturers

Learning Units:
3 AIA LU|Elective
Learning Level:
Basic Class: Content is introductory in nature and requires no prerequisite knowledge or experience to grasp the concepts or participate in exercises. Basic educational activities and materials are meant to establish a foundation of knowledge and competence that will be expanded upon in practice or in higher level seminars and workshops.
Special Instructions:
This is a live Webinar course presented via Microsoft TEAMS; internet access is required.

Career Pathways for Home Energy Professionals (Webinar)
2026-07-08 12:00 - 14:00
Description:
The home energy industry is rapidly expanding, offering numerous career opportunities in energy efficiency, solar energy, green building performance, and electrification. Whether you are a newcomer, a student, or an experienced professional, understanding available careers is crucial.
This class provides an overview of diverse roles, from entry-level to advanced positions. It focuses on essential certifications, skills, and responsibilities for each role. Participants will learn about key tools and technologies like energy auditing, solar installation, HVAC systems, and building performance analysis.
The course also highlights industry trends and growth areas, helping participants align their skills with market demands. With guidance on certification and practical tools, participants can create a personalized career plan that meets their professional goals and industry needs.
Learning Outcomes:
As a result of attending this class you can expect to learn the following

Details of career pathways in the home energy industry and the skills and certifications needed for each
Methods for identifying which certifications align with skills and responsibilities needed for different roles
The essential tools and technologies available to enhance your performance in these roles
How to develop a career plan within the home energy industry

Target Audience:

Home Energy Professionals
Students
Professionals transitioning to the home energy industry

Prerequisite(s):

N/A

Learning Units:

N/A

Instructor Information:
Spencer Rosen
Spencer Rosen has been in the clean energy industry for over 20 years and has a laundry list of home energy certifications. He has run his own home energy audit and whole-home upgrade company, Energy Integrity, for approximately 8 years.
He has been in many homes, crawled around in attics, removed low-efficiency materials and equipment, sealed leaks, upgraded windows, replaced ducts, added insulation, upgraded heating + cooling systems, and installed solar energy and battery systems.
To expand his influence, he began participating in various rebate and advocacy programs and developed these home energy courses to empower people with the knowledge to make their homes perform better.
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Special Instructions:
This is a Webinar held via Microsoft Teams and internet access is required. Customers will receive a link to the webinar the Friday prior to the event.

Advanced Framing with Wildfire Hardened, Creative Building Envelopes (Webinar)
2026-07-13 13:00 - 16:30
Course Description:
Traditional home construction often involves using more wood than necessary. Reducing wood usage not only lowers fuel consumption but also creates space for additional insulation, which decreases fire risk and enhances energy performance. Learn how to build more energy-efficient and wildfire-hardened homes at a lower cost and faster pace! Instructor Ron Kliewer, a seasoned Framer and General Contractor, will share his hands-on experience. He will cover the basic anatomy of wood framing, illustrate current framing practices, demonstrate how to build better buildings with less lumber, introduce alternate framing methods and assemblies, such as Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and continuous insulation. Instructor Chris Mellen will connect the benefits of Advanced Framing to the California Energy Code. He will show how Advanced Framing serves as a significant energy upgrade, aiding compliance with current and future energy code cycles. Join us to discover innovative methods for constructing more efficient and reslient homes!
Nerdy Discussions on Framing and Energy Compliance: Dive into the fascinating world of framing technicalities and energy design with our comprehensive discussions. We cover everything from the nitty-gritty of framing terms like “O.C.”, “cripple”, and “trimmer” to the cool innovations in Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and common framing mistakes. Explore essential topics such as Framing Factors and Energy Design Rating (EDR) and understand how they impact your energy compliance report. Learn about the origins of Advanced Framing and discover why it’s an excellent choice for building with wood in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), even when using exterior insulation cladding. We also delve into the concept of viewing a building as a system, highlighting how Advanced Framing complements tighter, more efficient, and wildfire-hardened buildings. And yes, we even touch on some math to ensure your designs are precise and compliant!
Agenda:
• Presented online as a live webinar filmed in the SCE’s Energy Education Center Smart Home using the High-Performance Wall (HPW)/High-Performance Attic (HPA) displays
• Course will include a Fact Sheet and PDF of the slide deck for later reference
Learning Objectives:
• Identify commonly used framing members, their specific applications in construction, and the common practices that lead to lumber lumber waste
• Discuss the mechanisms of heat loss and thermal shorts in building envelopes, and explore strategies to mitigate these issues for improved energy efficiency
• Analyze real world examples to enhance your understanding of advanced framing techniques and their significance in achieving energy savings and wildfire hardening, while recognizing the flexibility allowed by the The Building Code
• Evaluate various wall assemblies to determine the methods and materials required to achieve ignition-resistant 1-hour fire rating
• Understand the relationship between lumber usage and Title-24, including the integration of energy modeling and Advanced Framing techniques
• Evaluate the impact of energy code compliance in various climate zones, focusing on advanced framed walls, high-performance walls, reduced air leakage, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS), raised heel trusses, and high-performance attics
• Understand Advanced Framing techniques and the range of framing choices available, including the ability to discuss the gradients of Advanced Framing while ensuring structural integrity
• Learn the benefits of Advanced Framing in terms of lumber savings, time efficiency, cost reduction, and decreased fuel load
Target Audience:
• Architects
• Building Inspectors
• Builders & Contractors
• Carpenters & Framers
• DIY Homeowners/Remodelers
• Energy Consultants
• Energy Modelers
• Structural Engineers
• Teachers
• Fire Wise Communities
• California Fire Safe Council
Prerequisite(s):
Participants will benefit if they have some knowledge of construction and/or energy modeling but it is not necessary.
Learning Units:
3.5 AIA LU|HSW
Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Instructors:
• Ron Kliewer began his career framing houses and remodeling, eventually becoming a custom home builder and General Contractor, He holds BPI and IR certifications and has constructed a wide range of projects, from outhouses to nuclear power plants. Throughout his career, Ron has worn many hats, including framer, electrician, special inspector, project manager and general contractor. His early interest in energy efficiency led him into the world of building science, where he has collaborated with Southern California Edison, Bonneville Power Administration, Electric Power Research Institute, and other organizations on energy research projects.
• Chris Mellen, PE, is the Senior Engineer for Kliewer and Associates, managing multiple energy research projects and providing technical support to Southern California Edison and the Electric Power Research Institute for Demand Response and Emerging Technology energy pilots. He is a member of CABEC, ASHRAE, and PMI, with experience in energy code compliance. As an early adopter of emerging technology, Chris lives in a home served by heat pump technology, including a water heater, clothes dryer, and (soon) several mini splits. A long-time member of the ASHRAE Orange Empire Chapter, Chris is the past Chapter Historian.
• Chad Gretzner is a Research Engineer at Kliewer and Associates and NFPA Reducing Wildfire Risk to Property: Professional. He assists with project management for the Zero Flame Spread project funded by Southern California Edison and has contributed to the design and forensic study of a 1-hour burn test study representing high-density communities in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). This research led Kliewer & Associates to develop the class “Practical Guide to Hardening Structures & Parcels Against Wildfires” and the design and implementation of the “Parcel Assessment for Wildfire Hardening” (PAWH) form.
Special Instructions:
This is a live Webinar class presented via Microsoft TEAMS; internet access is required.

Wildfire Resilience: Hardening Structures & Communities (Webinar)
2026-07-14 08:30 - 12:00
Course Description:
There is an urgent need to perform parcel assessments in order to harden homes, parcels and communities to “stand alone” to survive wildfires. Why? Multiple fires and other conditions may outpace the efforts of first responders. What is needed to mitigate risks for individual buildings and communities? A comprehensive structure and parcel assessment based on a burn test study Kliewer and Associates (K&A), performed and the Hazard Mitigation Methodology (HMM) published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
In early 2024 and funded by SCE, Kliewer & Associates performed a burn test study that represented a high-density setting. One conventionally framed structure was not hardened against wildfire and had no defensible space. The hardened structure had a structure separation distance of 10’ from the burn structure and had defensible space. Thermocouples and cameras were placed inside and around the hardened structure to measure the temperature behind the fire rated door, window, and in the middle of the ceiling. The resulting forensic study performed after the burn test was completed, exposed vulnerable locations in the building assembly. Discover what features were most effective for survivability, and what features increased vulnerability and damage. Find out why some homes survive an event while the surrounding structures are destroyed.
This study sheds light on how to rebuild or retrofit structures and parcels with ignition-resistant building assemblies and how full structure hardening against direct flame exposure may greatly increase the probability of high-density homes surviving wildfires.
Building Scientist Ron Kliewer, Research Engineer Chad Gretzner, and Chris Mellen, P.E., will discuss the nuts and bolts of a wildfire hardened building envelope and the energy efficiency gains that are achievable.
Agenda:

Taught simultaneously as a webinar and in-person at SCE’s Energy Education Center (EEC), Irwindale classroom and partly in the EEC Smart Energy Experience Home using the full size Wildfire Hardened High-Performance Wall (HPW)/High-Performance Attic (HPA) displays.
The course will include a fact sheet guide.

Learning Outcomes:

How to build, rebuild or retrofit existing structures in a cost-efficient way, implementable by Pros, DIYers, and communities.
Reduce the vulnerability of structure and parcel ignition from wildfires by choosing ignition-resistant assemblies and materials.
How to protect structures in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) to “stand alone” or as a community to survive fire and ember exposures when first responders are not yet available to intervene.
How to perform a parcel assessment for wildfire hardening.
Identify the 40 structure ignition vulnerabilities.
Locate, prioritize, and choose fire resistant building materials.
Use limited funds to target key strategies to slow the spread of a wildfire
Identify fire hazard severity zones in your area.

Target Audience:

Homeowners/ Remodelers
Architects
Builders & Contractors
Building Inspectors
Community Leaders
Developers
Engineers
Hazard Mitigation Specialists
HOA’s
FireWise Communities

Prerequisite(s):
Participants will benefit if they are motivated to be prepared for wildfire exposures, whether individually, or as a community.
Learning Units:

3.5 AIA|HSW

Learning Level:
Intermediate Class: Content is appropriate for individuals who possess a fundamental understanding of the topic and have familiarity with basic terminology and methodology of the subject matter. Attendees should have the capacity to participate in instructor-led exercises requiring synthesis and application of concepts.
Instructors:
• Ron Kliewer began his career framing houses and remodeling, eventually becoming a custom home builder and General Contractor, He holds BPI and IR certifications and has constructed a wide range of projects, from outhouses to nuclear power plants. Throughout his career, Ron has worn many hats, including framer, electrician, special inspector, project manager and general contractor. His early interest in energy efficiency led him into the world of building science, where he has collaborated with Southern California Edison, Bonneville Power Administration, Electric Power Research Institute, and other organizations on energy research projects.
• Chris Mellen, PE, is the Senior Engineer for Kliewer and Associates, managing multiple energy research projects and providing technical support to Southern California Edison and the Electric Power Research Institute for Demand Response and Emerging Technology energy pilots. He is a member of CABEC, ASHRAE, and PMI, with experience in energy code compliance. As an early adopter of emerging technology, Chris lives in a home served by heat pump technology, including a water heater, clothes dryer, and (soon) several mini splits. A long-time member of the ASHRAE Orange Empire Chapter, Chris is the past Chapter Historian.
• Chad Gretzner is a Research Engineer at Kliewer and Associates and NFPA Reducing Wildfire Risk to Property: Professional. He assists with project management for the Zero Flame Spread project funded by Southern California Edison and has contributed to the design and forensic study of a 1-hour burn test study representing high-density communities in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). This research led Kliewer & Associates to develop the class “Practical Guide to Hardening Structures & Parcels Against Wildfires” and the design and implementation of the “Parcel Assessment for Wildfire Hardening” (PAWH) form.
Special Instructions:
This course is offered as a hybrid event, both In-Person and as an online Webinar. This is a live Webinar class presented via Microsoft TEAMS; internet access is required.

Troubleshooting Lighting Controls (Webinar)
2026-07-24 09:00 - 13:00
Description:
This course teaches attendees how to diagnose and resolve common lighting controls issues in commercial buildings. Participants will learn a structured troubleshooting process for systems that may include occupancy sensors, daylighting controls, wall stations, dimming zones, networked lighting controls, relays, emergency lighting interfaces, time schedules and integration with building automation systems.
This course focuses on practical field scenarios and participants will leave with a repeatable method for identifying whether an issue is caused by wiring, device configuration, programming, documentation, installation, commissioning or user operation.
Agenda:
Introduction to lighting controls troubleshooting
The troubleshooting workflow.
Common field issues and root causes.
Device-level troubleshooting.
Networked lighting controls and communication issues.
Documentation and closeout.
Learning Outcomes:
Apply a systematic troubleshooting workflow for commercial lighting control systems.
Identify common control system failure points.
Test lighting control components in the field.
Document findings clearly and communicate corrective actions to the appropriate project stakeholders.
Target Audience:
Project Managers, sales reps and installers.
