UGI opens training center campus in Berks

Mike Urban, Reading Eagle, Pa.
·2 min read

Sep. 24—UGI Utilities Inc. has opened a training center in Bern Township for employees and contractors from across its 46-county service area.

The $37 million facility on Stinson Road near Route 222 was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday.

While UGI has other training sites, the utility's plan is to transition so that all of the company's training takes place on the new campus, said spokesman Joe Swope.

The facility's opening is a big step toward enhancing UGI's commitment to safe and reliable operations, officials from the Lancaster County-based company said in a press release.

The complex is designed to provide employees with hands-on learning experiences that simulate real-life situations, officials said.

"This facility will provide the best possible preparation for our current and future workforce and constitutes an important investment for UGI Utilities as we move forward," said Hans Bell, UGI president.

The facility is located on a 40-acre tract and includes a 47,500 square foot learning center containing six classrooms and two lecture rooms that can open into a single large space seating about 135 people.

Four labs within the building will accommodate specific UGI departments, including construction and maintenance, safety, service, and meter and regulation training programs.

In addition, a separate 10,500-square foot welding shop will provide instruction on welding, stopping and capping natural gas lines. Two indoor pits are available to simulate confined-space welding.

Another feature of the complex is Responder's Ridge, designed to provide employees with hands-on learning experiences that simulate real-life situations.

For example, a series of townhouse-style buildings with full basements will be used as simulators to allow participants to experience various types of emergency situations and apply appropriate remediation techniques. A separate structure will allow participants to review a video of their performance.

The complex also includes outdoor instruction areas for firefighting, pipe corrosion and protection, and backhoe excavation.

In addition to UGI employees, the facility will be utilized by UGI field contractors.

UGI Utilities provides natural gas and electric service to more than 730,000 customers in 45 Pennsylvania counties and one county in Maryland.