EAST PETERSBURG, Pa. — The National Association of Oil and Energy Service Professionals (OESP) is hosting its 59th annual convention, May 20-24, in Providence, R.I. The event includes a trade show, with over 200 indoor and outdoor exhibits, and a variety of free educational courses.

The organization’s primary mission is education. Attendees will have several class options to enhance their knowledge and skills. In addition to the technical courses offered, there will be sessions specifically geared toward managers and owners.

This year, OESP will also showcase its “Train-the-Trainer” program. This program is designed for those responsible for training within their company, independent trainers, manufacturers’ trainers, and instructors. The program begins with a two-and-a-half-day workshop delivered by Penn State University. After the initial session, annual seminars are offered, focusing on different industry-related topics each year. All participants receive a PowerPoint presentation developed by the trainer and have an opportunity to practice presenting. The goal of the program is to build confidence and deliver training in a consistent manner.

Four OESP members who are involved in the Train-the-Trainer program will be teaching a session. Al Breda, of the New Haven Chapter, will teach a class on solar energy. Ralph Adams, of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter, will teach the “How to Grow Your Business by Selling High-Efficiency Equipment” class. Matt Spink, of the Long Island Chapter, will teach the “Moving from a Residential Tech to a Commercial Technician” workshop, and Angel Gonzalez, of the New York City Chapter, will teach a class on “Old Fashioned Steam — the New Modern Heat.” Carol Fey will also hold a workshop on Monday for trainers called “How to Teach the Basics of Energy Controls.”

Registration for the event is open. For more information, visit www.thinkoesp.org.

Publication date: 03/05/2012