EmpowerED New York
Presented by the International Insulation Industry Apprentice Training Fund (IIIATF) in partnership with NYSERDA.
Equipping Classrooms to Inspire Tomorrow’s Energy & Safety Leaders
Introducing NO-COST, innovative, age-appropriate educational resources that help New York educators bring the science and impact of mechanical insulation to life in their classrooms.
Educational Resources Available To You…
GRADES K-4 CHILDREN’S BOOK
What Do Thermal Insulators Do?
A lively, rhyming children’s book introducing Sal A. Mander, the magical mascot who invites young learners to see the connections between the built environment, sustainability, and skilled trades.
GRADES 5-8 SCIENCE BOOK
The Science Squad Saves Energy*
A dynamic, story-driven science book that follows a team of students discovering how mechanical insulation saves energy and solves real-world problems. Featuring hands-on experiments, myth-busting facts, and vibrant illustrations
GRADES 5-8 LEARNING TOOLS
Classroom Activities& Teacher Guides
Flexible lesson plans, interactive challenges, and review puzzles make it easy for educators to integrate mechanical insulation science into their curriculum — whether for a single class activity or a full unit.
GRADES 9-12 CAREER EDUCATION
Building A Bright Future in Construction
Working with high school counselors, this program introduces New York students to mechanical insulation as a pathway to post–high school career training & high-demand jobs in construction, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Energy & Safety Leaders
The IIIATF is proud to launch its grant-funded EmpowerED FUTURES New York initiative designed to give K-12 students across New York State the knowledge and tools needed to help shape a more sustainable and safe future.
By equipping classrooms with engaging educational resources and hands-on learning opportunities, this program helps educators inspire students to understand the critical role that mechanical insulation plays in energy conservation, building safety, and environmental stewardship.
Why Does Mechanical Insulation Matter?
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Reduces energy waste, lowers utility costs, and helps achieve New York’s climate goals.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Stabilizes indoor temperatures, reduces noise, and prevents fire hazards.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Improves efficiency and cuts emissions, protecting New York’s environment for future generations.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Offers in-demand, well-paying jobs with strong union support and lifelong benefits.
What is the IIIATF?
While local area training centers, known as Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATCs), run the actual registered apprenticeship programs, the IIIATF develops and provides the cutting-edge curriculum and training resources that ensure every apprentice masters their skills, works safely and advances their careers. They also provide upgrade training on the latest technology and industry advancements to experienced journeymen.
These registered apprenticeship programs offer a powerful alternative to traditional college, enabling high school graduates to earn while they learn, all without incurring student debt. Apprentices receive a blend of classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training, where they master critical skills in mechanical insulation and related fields, including firestopping, sound attenuation, and specialty fabrication.
The work of a mechanical insulator is essential for energy efficiency and sustainability, directly contributing to the clean energy sector. This career path offers a clear route to a stable, middle-class life and is at the forefront of the modern construction industry.
This campaign, funded by a grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), aims to educate New York students from kindergarten through 12th grade about the energy-saving value of mechanical insulation and the rewarding careers available in this vital industry.
Learn More
The following video helps parents, counselors, and others who support students in grades 5 through 8 learn the basics about the mechanical insulation industry and how becoming a registered apprentice can be the start of a viable career alternative to a college education without incurring any student debt.
Get Involved
Ready to bring some cutting-edge career paths into your classroom? We’re busy creating engaging educational materials that highlight the value of mechanical insulation and the rewarding careers available in the industry. Be the first to know when empowerED New York’s free educational resources can be ordered for your classroom! Sign up now!
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