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About Us

School History

The Refrigeration Institute is a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning School founded in 1994. We are licensed by New York Education Department and conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, just a few minutes’ walk from Madison Square Garden and Port Authority.

The Refrigeration Institute has received many accolades on our training content and presentation but the most noteworthy compliments come on a daily basis from the students participating in our programs. We are proud of their unrelenting enthusiasm, interest and motivation.

Mission and goals

The educational mission and goal of The Refrigeration Institute is to provide the best possible training at an affordable price for individuals wanting to become refrigeration and air conditioning technicians or Refrigerating System Operating Engineers, thus enabling them to pursue careers in these challenging and financially rewarding fields.

Location and facilities

The Refrigeration Institute is located at 545 8th Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018 (between 37th and 38th Streets, 4 blocks up from Penn Station, and 2 blocks down from the Port Authority Bus Terminal). We can easily be reached by public transportation.

Prospective students may call the school office at 212-244-2588 for further directions.

Philosophy and objectives

The principle goal of The Refrigeration Institute is to ensure that every student understands the theory of refrigeration and air conditioning and then has the opportunity to repeatedly see this knowledge come to fruition in our extensive hands-on training classes. In our shop classes, our students build their skill levels while developing confidence in their own knowledge and ability. The majority of our students in our Refrigerating System Operating Engineer Hybrid 225-Hour Course are graduates of our technician’s training program. These students first and foremost are trained to become Operating Engineers skilled in Plant Operations and Confident in Operational Trouble-Shooting. They also gain the ability to pass the FDNY written exam and practical exam for the FDNY Refrigerating System Operating Engineer License.

The entire staff at The Refrigeration Institute understands that our students are investing both their valuable time and money in an effort to improve their quality of life. The foremost reason for this school’s existence is to help every student reach this goal.

What our Graduates are saying

Being unhappy with the direction of my life and career choice I decided to go back to school. Under the guidance of my brother who is also a Graduate of The Refrigeration Institute and a Licensed Operating Engineer, it led me to Mr. Talty. Now I’m proud of my accomplishment - a licensed Operating Engineer with a career that is so rewarding and with so many opportunities and avenues to choose from. Thank you Mr. Talty and Staff!

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Coming from a job with no direction to graduating from The Refrigeration Institute and obtaining myNYC Refrigeration License, I have come a long way. I am proud of my accomplishments and knowledge in the field of refrigeration and with this training, I have learned I have a lot to offer. So, if you're worried you're not going to do well because you know nothing at all about refrigeration, don't be. You'll be in good hands. Some of us had zero experience in the field, and yet we passed and moved on to very rewarding careers. So, if you're thinking about a career in the refrigeration field, The Refrigeration Institute is a great place to start.

Brandon D’Auria

I’m a proud graduate of The Refrigeration Institute Class of 2020 and I had a wonderful experience. It was a tough journey, however it was achievable and well worth it. Mr. Talty and his staff believedin me and because of them, I achieved my goal and I am now a licensed Operating Engineer with a rewarding job in NYC.

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The Refrigeration Institute is an informative and useful educational experience. The owner/operator/instructor, Mr. Talty is not only a highly experienced and knowledgeable trades professional and master, his teaching methodologies and deliveries are the best, bar none. All the school's employees are understanding of the personal educational needs and situations of each individual student. The school not only prepares its students for the trade but also helps each student along the process to achieving their goal. Mr. Talty is a true teacher in every sense of the word. Being a student at the school and completing the certification course has helped me grow in my own personal ways. I would suggest and or, recommend this school to any tradesman who want to extend his skills or knowledge and, to any younger adult who wants to learn a gainful trade. Mr. Talty is the best Refrigeration teacher, life instructor, mentor, and advisor, to all of his students.

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When I came to The Refrigeration Institute, I went just to get my Universal Certificate. I was in a low paying, go no-where job as an “engineer” in a hotel. After Frank’s tour of the school, I enrolled. That proved to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It was an investment in my future. The diploma and license are great on a resume, but more than that, I learned that hard work and doing my best pays off…. showing up on time every day after work, taking notes, and studying etc. …all this was foreign to someone whose life was defined by doing things half-assed, cutting corners, and doing the bare minimum to get by. TRI changed that. The school and the lessons learned (especially the ones not graded) led me to a well-paying, recession proof career as a Plant Operator in a hospital. I learned that I am a good student, and I AM smart, and I CAN achieve…. Thoughts are things…remember that and do the right thing, even when no-one is looking and that dream job can be yours too!

Peter Rosa

I could not be happier with the results of graduating from The Refrigeration Institute. The program enabled me to change careers….in my mid 40s! Frank’s program provided me with the knowledge to secure the credentials needed to begin a career as a refrigeration engineer. The foundation was also provided to ensure it was successful. Currently I am part of the engineering team at a world-renowned hospital where the entire team as well as our supervisor, are graduates of The Refrigeration Institute.

Chris Michaels

Attending classes at The Refrigeration Institute has truly changed my life for the better and has opened endless doors of opportunity. I successfully completed 2 full courses and was able to receive a top-tier education from some of the finest educators within the NYS Career Schools Sector. With the skills and experience I gained at The Refrigeration Institute, I secured employment with New York City’s most reliable mechanical contractor. I am extremely thankful for the educational experience I was given at TRI and can guarantee that any expectations will be exceeded

Anthony Granito

At 58 years old and having had nothing but dead-end jobs, I heard about The Refrigeration Institute and decided to give it a try. I have not looked back. They trained me well and helped me find a rewarding position that I have now held for almost 7 years. The Refrigeration Institute salvaged my life!

Guy Carney

Coming to The Refrigeration Institute changed my life for the better, from the small classes to the amazing and helpful staff, they were there for me every step of the way. Their hands-on training, preparation, and the available one on one learning help me to achieve my Refrigerating System Operating Engineer License. My favorite part of the Institute had to be the close relations that the instructors, office staff, and even the owner Frank Talty and his wife built with you. All this has led me to a dream union position at the prestigious NYU Langone, and therefore I will always be forever grateful for paving a path to my bright future.

Brad Armas

Before meeting Mr. Francis Talty and enrolling in The Refrigeration Institute, I was working in a profession with no growth potential or opportunities for advancement. A co-worker recommended I check out The Refrigeration Institute and meet with Mr. Talty. After enrolling in his program, I received outstanding guidance and education in being an engineer. I obtained my license for New York City and now have a great job with a future. I can never thank Mr. Talty for not only believing in me, but for seeing the full potential of all his students. I am forever grateful

Marek Stec

The certification I received at The Refrigeration Institute broadened my horizons and qualified me for many employment opportunities within the HVAC/Engineering field. Since graduating, I have been given multiple job offers from reputable organizations. The training I received from this school prepared me to advance in my career and I highly recommend this school for anyone who wants to be an HVAC Technician or Refrigeration Engineer.

Jermain Jagdeo

After graduating from a university with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, I wasn’t feeling fulfilled. The Refrigeration Institute not only provided me with the theoretical and practical training necessary to confidently enter the workforce, but their connections also opened the door for me to land my first job in the hands-on career I love.

Connor McDermott

At 20 years old, I had no desire for any one career, and so I chose The Refrigeration Institute on a whim as something I might be interested in. In hindsight, this would be the #1 best decision I’d make as far as finding what it is I wanted to do in life. The Refrigeration Institute not only gave me a firm foundation in the science behind the trade but gave me the tools to further explore its many complexities years after graduation. Five years after completing the engineering course, I still resort back to the basics I learned here to delve deeper into finding solutions in the field.

Greg Sershen

When I started The Refrigeration Institute, I wanted a career change. Thanks to the skills I learned there, I fulfilled my career path. I went from being an engineer to a supervisor in 2 years. My teachers were highly motivated and eager to fill my brain with enough knowledge for me to be where I am now. Thank you

Haris Kojic

Frank’s school, The Refrigeration Institute, is more than a school. Once you start you become part of the Refrigeration Institute family. They want you to be the best in the field. They give you the knowledge to not only pass a test, but to also understand what they’re teaching you. Before Frank’s school, I was not sure what to do with my life. Now, 5 years after finishing, I have had a 6-figure job with benefits for the last 3 years, a family, and a beautiful house. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all this if I didn’t go to this school. They even helped me get my first job which paved the way to where I am now. I cannot recommend this school enough and how thankful I am

Erik Smertenko

The Refrigeration Institute has afforded me opportunities I would not have been able to achieve by myself. Their instructors truly want you to succeed and will help anyone struggling to understand any concept. You will not receive this style of teaching at other trade schools

Emilio DiFranco

Before attending The Refrigeration Institute, my job often left me stressed, although it was paying the bills. Attending this school enabled me to broaden my knowledge and better support my family so we could live more comfortably. Now, my work is easier to manage and enjoy while simultaneously doing better financially.

Amir Medunjanin

The teachers were really helpful at explaining everything and making sure you understood what was going on. Also, after graduating, I have had a lot of job opportunities. It has totally changed my life. I make more money now and work at a prestigious hospital.

Zhen Liu

When I immigrated to the United States, it was clear my education would not translate to gainful employment. I needed vocational training. The Refrigeration Institute staff supported me every step of the way on my journey. They helped me to obtain my FDNY Refrigeration License. I am now a proud Local 94 Union Member working in a flagship state-of-the-art luxury apartment building.

Joe Badi

Attending The Refrigeration Institute was the best decision I have made in my life. Not only do you receive the best HVAC training, but you are taught to become an indispensable employee. Frank has created a program that when executed correctly guarantees success. I highly recommend TRI to anybody interested in starting a career in HVAC.

Greg Hildreth

I am a proud graduate of The Refrigeration Institute and it has benefited me immensely.Instead of going to college like most of my friends, I decided on a vocation that would better suit me. After 7 1/2 months of schooling and at only 19 years old, I am marketable in so many ways and to so many different types of businesses. I am now looking forward to starting my career at a local hospital. The teachers and staff at The Refrigeration Institute have gone above and beyond to make sure I would be successful after graduation and I cannot thank them enough for all they have taught me and all they have done for me.

Daniel Leary

When I graduated high school, I wanted to get into the HVAC field. I wasn’t sure where to go until I went to The Refrigeration Institute to check out the school and while there, it became clear to me it was the place to be. What I found best about the school is that when you are struggling, they sit down with you before or after class and walk you through what you are stuck on. The Refrigeration Institute not only gave me the knowledge to get my operating engineer’s license but also went the extra mile to teach me about the field in a bigger aspect. This school is not just about passing the test, they go the long haul with you to help you get on the right path.

Mike Dillon

Before I came to The Refrigeration Institute, I did not have any direction or job to my name, but after speaking with Frank and some of the instructors there, I immediately felt drawn to HVAC as a career. The training and life lessons I learned under everyone there including my classmates, made me a better technician and person. The school taught me a lot about having patience when solving problems in the field and that has translated into other areas of my life as well, so I am thankful to them for that. If you decide to enroll, you won’t be disappointed. I’d do it all over again.

Shakeem Layne

The Refrigeration Institute changed my life for the better. I was unemployed and had no training until I enrolled at The Refrigeration Institute. The course was detailed and concise and covered all the basics when it came to Refrigeration and Electrical theory as well as hands-on vocational training. The teachers are knowledgeable and took the time to explain the theory so you could apply it in the shop and eventually in the field. I owe a great deal of my success to The Refrigeration Institute and their amazing staff, and hands-on training provided.

Phil M

The training, support, mentorship, and Iove I received at The Refrigeration Institute prepared me to become a building engineer. Two years after graduation, I am now a Chief Engineer, a position the school helped me find. It has been an honor to attend the school and be mentored by Founder, Frank Talty

Jessie Mosely

Being unhappy with the direction of my life and career choice I decided to go back to school. Under the guidance of my brother who is also a Graduate of The Refrigeration Institute and a Licensed Operating Engineer, it led me to Mr. Talty. Now I’m proud of my accomplishment - a licensed Operating Engineer with a career that is so rewarding and with so many opportunities and avenues to choose from. Thank you Mr. Talty and Staff!

B D'Auria

I could not be happier with the results of graduating from The Refrigeration Institute. The program enabled me to change careers….in my mid 40s! Frank’s program provided me with the knowledge to secure the credentials needed to begin a career as a refrigeration engineer. The foundation was also provided to ensure it was successful. Currently I am part of the engineering team at a world-renowned hospital where the entire team as well as our supervisor, are graduates of The Refrigeration Institute.

Chris Michaels

Attending classes at The Refrigeration Institute has truly changed my life for the better and has opened endless doors of opportunity. I successfully completed 2 full courses and was able to receive a top-tier education from some of the finest educators within the NYS Career Schools Sector. With the skills and experience I gained at The Refrigeration Institute, I secured employment with New York City’s most reliable mechanical contractor. I am extremely thankful for the educational experience I was given at TRI and can guarantee that any expectations will be exceeded.

Anthony Granito

At 58 years old and having had nothing but dead-end jobs, I heard about The Refrigeration Institute and decided to give it a try. I have not looked back. They trained me well and helped me find a rewarding position that I have now held for almost 7 years. The Refrigeration Institute salvaged my life!

Guy Carney

Coming to The Refrigeration Institute changed my life for the better, from the small classes to the amazing and helpful staff, they were there for me every step of the way. Their hands-on training, preparation, and the available one on one learning help me to achieve my Refrigerating System Operating Engineer License. My favorite part of the Institute had to be the close relations that the instructors, office staff, and even the owner Frank Talty and his wife built with you. All this has led me to a dream union position at the prestigious NYU Langone, and therefore I will always be forever grateful for paving a path to my bright future.

Brad Armas

When I came to The Refrigeration Institute, I went just to get my Universal Certificate. I was in a low paying, go no-where job as an “engineer” in a hotel. After Frank’s tour of the school, I enrolled. That proved to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It was an investment in my future. The diploma and license are great on a resume, but more than that, I learned that hard work and doing my best pays off…. showing up on time every day after work, taking notes, and studying etc. …all this was foreign to someone whose life was defined by doing things half-assed, cutting corners, and doing the bare minimum to get by. TRI changed that. The school and the lessons learned (especially the ones not graded) led me to a well-paying, recession proof career as a Plant Operator in a hospital. I learned that I am a good student, and I AM smart, and I CAN achieve…. Thoughts are things…remember that and do the right thing, even when no-one is looking and that dream job can be yours too!

Peter Rosa

Before meeting Mr. Francis Talty and enrolling in The Refrigeration Institute, I was working in a profession with no growth potential or opportunities for advancement. A co-worker recommended I check out The Refrigeration Institute and meet with Mr. Talty. After enrolling in his program, I received outstanding guidance and education in being an engineer. I obtained my license for New York City and now have a great job with a future. I can never thank Mr. Talty for not only believing in me, but for seeing the full potential of all his students. I am forever grateful.

Marek Stec

The certification I received at The Refrigeration Institute broadened my horizons and qualified me for many employment opportunities within the HVAC/Engineering field. Since graduating, I have been given multiple job offers from reputable organizations. The training I received from this school prepared me to advance in my career and I highly recommend this school for anyone who wants to be an HVAC Technician or Refrigeration Engineer.

Jermain Jagdeo

After graduating from a university with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, I wasn’t feeling fulfilled. The Refrigeration Institute not only provided me with the theoretical and practical training necessary to confidently enter the workforce, but their connections also opened the door for me to land my first job in the hands-on career I love.

Connor McDermott

At 20 years old, I had no desire for any one career, and so I chose The Refrigeration Institute on a whim as something I might be interested in. In hindsight, this would be the #1 best decision I’d make as far as finding what it is I wanted to do in life. The Refrigeration Institute not only gave me a firm foundation in the science behind the trade but gave me the tools to further explore its many complexities years after graduation. Five years after completing the engineering course, I still resort back to the basics I learned here to delve deeper into finding solutions in the field.

Greg Sershen

When I started The Refrigeration Institute, I wanted a career change. Thanks to the skills I learned there, I fulfilled my career path. I went from being an engineer to a supervisor in 2 years. My teachers were highly motivated and eager to fill my brain with enough knowledge for me to be where I am now. Thank you.

Haris Kojic

Frank’s school, The Refrigeration Institute, is more than a school. Once you start you become part of the Refrigeration Institute family. They want you to be the best in the field. They give you the knowledge to not only pass a test, but to also understand what they’re teaching you. Before Frank’s school, I was not sure what to do with my life. Now, 5 years after finishing, I have had a 6-figure job with benefits for the last 3 years, a family, and a beautiful house. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all this if I didn’t go to this school. They even helped me get my first job which paved the way to where I am now. I cannot recommend this school enough and how thankful I am.

Erik Smertenko

The Refrigeration Institute has afforded me opportunities I would not have been able to achieve by myself. Their instructors truly want you to succeed and will help anyone struggling to understand any concept. You will not receive this style of teaching at other trade schools.

Emilio DiFranco

Before attending The Refrigeration Institute, my job often left me stressed, although it was paying the bills. Attending this school enabled me to broaden my knowledge and better support my family so we could live more comfortably. Now, my work is easier to manage and enjoy while simultaneously doing better financially.

Amir Medunjanin

The teachers were really helpful at explaining everything and making sure you understood what was going on. Also, after graduating, I have had a lot of job opportunities. It has totally changed my life. I make more money now and work at a prestigious hospital.

Zhen Liu

When I immigrated to the United States, it was clear my education would not translate to gainful employment. I needed vocational training. The Refrigeration Institute staff supported me every step of the way on my journey. They helped me to obtain my FDNY Refrigeration License. I am now a proud Local 94 Union Member working in a flagship state-of-the-art luxury apartment building.

Joe Badi

Attending The Refrigeration Institute was the best decision I have made in my life. Not only do you receive the best HVAC training, but you are taught to become an indispensable employee. Frank has created a program that when executed correctly guarantees success. I highly recommend TRI to anybody interested in starting a career in HVAC.

Greg Hildreth

I am a proud graduate of The Refrigeration Institute and it has benefited me immensely. Instead of going to college like most of my friends, I decided on a vocation that would better suit me. After 7 1/2 months of schooling and at only 19 years old, I am marketable in so many ways and to so many different types of businesses. I am now looking forward to starting my career at a local hospital. The teachers and staff at The Refrigeration Institute have gone above and beyond to make sure I would be successful after graduation and I cannot thank them enough for all they have taught me and all they have done for me.

Daniel Leary

The training, support, mentorship, and Iove I received at The Refrigeration Institute prepared me to become a building engineer. Two years after graduation, I am now a Chief Engineer, a position the school helped me find. It has been an honor to attend the school and be mentored by Founder, Frank Talty

Jessie Mosely

The Refrigeration Institute changed my life for the better. I was unemployed and had no training until I enrolled at The Refrigeration Institute. The course was detailed and concise and covered all the basics when it came to Refrigeration and Electrical theory as well as hands-on vocational training. The teachers are knowledgeable and took the time to explain the theory so you could apply it in the shop and eventually in the field. I owe a great deal of my success to The Refrigeration Institute and their amazing staff, and hands-on training provided.

Phil M.

Before I came to The Refrigeration Institute, I did not have any direction or job to my name, but after speaking with Frank and some of the instructors there, I immediately felt drawn to HVAC as a career. The training and life lessons I learned under everyone there including my classmates, made me a better technician and person. The school taught me a lot about having patience when solving problems in the field and that has translated into other areas of my life as well, so I am thankful to them for that. If you decide to enroll, you won’t be disappointed. I’d do it all over again.

Shakeem Layne

When I graduated high school, I wanted to get into the HVAC field. I wasn’t sure where to go until I went to The Refrigeration Institute to check out the school and while there, it became clear to me it was the place to be. What I found best about the school is that when you are struggling, they sit down with you before or after class and walk you through what you are stuck on. The Refrigeration Institute not only gave me the knowledge to get my operating engineer’s license but also went the extra mile to teach me about the field in a bigger aspect. This school is not just about passing the test, they go the long haul with you to help you get on the right path.

Mike Dillon

Lifetime Career Placement Assistance

At the Refrigeration Institute, we are committed to helping all of our graduates, providing them with Lifetime Career Placement Assistance. We are highly successful in placing our graduates, which reflects the excellent quality of our graduates and the high-quality education and hands-on training they receive at The Refrigeration Institute.

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