Inside Famous Supply’s New J-TEC Facility: A Midwest Hub for Contractor Training

With 12 labs, CEU courses and industry partnerships, the Jay Blaushild Training and Education Center expands technical development for HVAC, plumbing and hydronics professionals.

Nov. 25, 2025

3 min read

Key Highlights

25,000-sq-ft training center with 12 labs and CEU/NATE programming built for working contractors.
New Midwest destination for hands-on HVAC, plumbing, hydronics and controls training.
Community partnerships designed to develop future trades talent and strengthen local career pathways.

The entrance to the new training center.

MAPLE HEIGHTS, OH — Famous Supply will open the Jay Blaushild Training and Education Center (J-TEC) on January 14, 2026, creating a dedicated hub for technical training in HVAC, plumbing, hydronics and HVAC electrical controls. The new 25,000-square-foot facility honors the late Jay Blaushild, whose commitment to lifelong learning guided Famous Supply’s approach to professional development.

Rooted in Blaushild’s philosophy that “becoming an expert is not a destination; it’s a journey,” J-TEC is designed to serve both experienced technicians and new entrants to the trades. Located next to the company’s Maple Heights Regional Distribution Center, the facility provides CEU-accredited and NATE-certified coursework through Famous University, along with classroom instruction, hands-on labs and direct access to industry experts.

A look at one of the new state-of-the-art training labs.

“Since 1933, Famous has been committed to the training and development of our associates and customers. Our investment in J-TEC is an important part of our future growth and success. We are grateful to be able to provide a lifelong learning environment for all who desire to participate in educational opportunities,” said Marc Blaushild, CEO & Chairman of Famous Supply.

Training Labs Built for Real-World Contractor Needs

The center features twelve specialized labs and three classrooms with seating for up to 200 participants. Hands-on modules cover residential and commercial HVAC installation and maintenance, refrigeration certifications, ductless systems, tank and tankless water heating, hydronic systems, boiler troubleshooting, backflow prevention, and HVAC electrical controls and low-voltage wiring. Contractors can also leverage Build-a-Tech programs aimed at developing fully capable, job-ready technicians.

Expanded Capacity for Industry Events

Beyond technical training, J-TEC includes the Legacy Event Room, a 300-plus-seat venue for larger contractor and industry gatherings. Programming will range from speaker series and trend briefings to product and technical symposiums, business and technology conferences, and leadership and marketing events.

“We view J-TEC as transformational for Famous. As our industry continues to evolve and new people enter the trades, there’s nothing more important than technicians and installers having proper training. We believe this facility will be the go-to destination for hands-on training in the Midwest,” said Brian Blaushild, President of Famous Supply.

One of the event spaces at the new training center.

Strengthening Local Workforce Pathways

Famous Supply is also expanding community partnerships tied to the opening of J-TEC. Through collaborations with the City of Maple Heights, Kindland Village and nearby schools, the company will support mentoring, youth outreach and trade-pathway programs that introduce students to careers in the skilled trades. These initiatives are intended to boost local workforce development while creating accessible opportunities for young people interested in the industry.

To learn more visit www.famous-supply.com.

Note: this release was rewritten with help from generative AI.