Frequently Asked Questions — Stacks+Joules
About Stacks+Joules
What is Stacks+Joules?
Stacks+Joules is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free, hands-on building automation systems (BAS) training for young adults ages 18–24. The program prepares graduates for well-paying careers installing, programming, and maintaining the automated systems that control HVAC, lighting, and energy management in commercial buildings. The program runs in New York City at Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side, and launched in Charlotte, NC in March 2026 in partnership with Goodwill.
Is Stacks+Joules a legitimate organization?
Yes. Stacks+Joules is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The NYC program operates in partnership with Henry Street Settlement, one of New York City's oldest and most established social service organizations. The program has been featured in Yale Climate Connections and has a track record of placing graduates with employers including TEC Systems, Climatec/Bosch, and Durst Corporation.
How is the program funded?
Stacks+Joules is funded through grants and partnerships, including support from NYSERDA. There is no cost to students — no tuition, no income share agreement, and no fees of any kind.
Eligibility
Who can apply?
The NYC program is open to anyone ages 18–24. The Charlotte, NC program has no age restriction. In both programs, no prior experience in building automation, HVAC, electrical work, or coding is required. Stacks+Joules specifically serves people who face barriers to traditional workforce pathways — including people experiencing housing instability or poverty — and provides wraparound support to help students complete the program.
Is the program strictly for ages 18–24? What if I'm older?
It depends on which program you're applying to. The New York City program serves participants ages 18–24. The Charlotte, NC program has no age restriction and welcomes applicants of all ages. If you're outside the NYC age range, we'd encourage you to explore the Charlotte program or reach out to us directly — we're happy to help point you in the right direction.
Do I need a high school diploma or GED to apply?
Yes. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, and must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Do I need prior experience in building automation, HVAC, or coding?
No. The program is built for people with no background in these fields. Python programming, HVAC fundamentals, controls, and networking are all taught from the ground up.
I have experience in a related field — IT, networking, plumbing, or HVAC. Does that help my application?
Prior experience in a related trade or technical field can be useful context, but it is not a requirement and won't substitute for meeting the age eligibility. The program teaches a complete and specific building automation skill set regardless of what you've done before. What matters most is motivation and commitment to completing 14 weeks of full-time, in-person training.
Is there a women-only cohort or programs specifically designed for women entering the field?
Stacks+Joules ran a women-only cohort from 2023 to 2025. That cohort is currently suspended. We welcome applications from women in our standard cohorts and are committed to building an inclusive program. Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media to be notified if a women-specific cohort is offered again.
The Program
Is the program really free?
Yes. Completely free. No tuition. No hidden fees. No income share agreements. Stacks+Joules is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and the program is fully funded through grants and partnerships. Accepted students pay nothing.
Is there a stipend or financial assistance available during the program?
NYC students enrolled through the Train&Earn program receive a stipend during the program. There is no stipend currently offered for the Charlotte, NC program.
What support does the program provide beyond technical training?
Beyond the curriculum, Stacks+Joules and its partners connect students with support for basic needs that might otherwise prevent program completion. This includes connections to housing assistance, food access, transportation support, and help with interview-appropriate clothing. The goal is to remove every barrier between a motivated person and a good job.
How long is the program?
14 weeks, run in person. After completing the curriculum, graduates enter a paid internship with a BAS employer, followed by job placement support.
Is the program in-person only? Is there an online or virtual option?
Yes, the program is in-person only. Stacks+Joules prioritizes hands-on, in-person training because building automation is a physical trade — students need to work with real hardware, real wiring, and real systems. There is no virtual or remote version of the program.
Where does the program take place?
The New York City program runs at Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The Charlotte, NC program runs in partnership with Goodwill. Both programs are in-person.
What cities does Stacks+Joules currently operate in?
Stacks+Joules currently runs programs in New York City and Charlotte, NC. The Charlotte program launched its first cohort in March 2026. Additional locations may be added in the future — follow Stacks+Joules on social media for updates.
What You'll Learn
What skills does the program teach?
The 14-week curriculum covers the full technical stack of building automation:
- Python programming — the language behind modern BAS platforms
- Niagara N4 — the industry-standard building automation integration framework
- HVAC and air handling — how mechanical systems work before you automate them
- Low-voltage wiring and networking — the physical layer connecting BAS components
- LCA EE101 lighting controls certification — an industry credential included in the program
- EPA 608 refrigerant certification — a federal requirement for anyone working with refrigerants commercially
- Professional development — resume writing, interview preparation, workplace communication
What certifications will I earn?
Graduates leave the program with two industry certifications: the LCA EE101 lighting controls certification and the EPA 608 refrigerant handling certification. Both are recognized credentials in the BAS industry and transferable across employers.
What is Niagara N4?
Niagara N4 is a software framework used in the majority of commercial building automation installations. It's the platform that allows BAS technicians to integrate and control HVAC, lighting, energy, and other building systems from a single interface