Heating/Cooling/Plumbing/Electricity teaches the skills needed in each of the trades in this program for entry-level employment. This is a three-year course, certifiable upon high school graduation.

Students are taught theory, given hands-on work in the shop for practice, and evaluated weekly. The National Electrical Code and the N.J. State Plumbing Code are referenced throughout the course. A work-study program for seniors provides paid work opportunities and on the job training.

Considered a demand occupation, skilled graduates are assured employment with wages to match abilities and responsibilities. The school maintains a close association with trade unions, which in turn helps provide job placement opportunities for students.

Several graduates have started their own successful businesses and employ workers from this program. Some have key positions in the trades and others are members of plumbing and electrical unions. All are highly skilled and have high-paying occupations with great futures.

Students have participated in SkillsUSA consistently over the years, a state/national competition of all the trades taught at Cape May Tech and HCPE students have won gold, silver and bronze medals.

Richard Layton has been teaching this course for 23 years and was awarded the N.J. State Governor's Award for Teacher of the Year. He has 16 years experience running his own business in the plumbing and heating trades prior to going into teaching. He has successfully placed graduates into careers, close to 100% over the last several years.