Frequently Asked Questions
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 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 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. No prior experience in building automation, HVAC, electrical work, or coding is required.
Is the program strictly for ages 18–24? What if I'm older?
The New York City program serves participants ages 18–24. The Charlotte, NC program has no age restriction and welcomes applicants of all ages.
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.
Is there a women-only cohort?
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.
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.
Is there a stipend or financial assistance available?
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.
How long is the program?
14 weeks, run in person. After completing the curriculum, graduates enter an onboarding pipeline with a BAS employer, followed by job placement support.
Is the program in-person only?
Yes. 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.
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.
What You'll Learn
What skills does the program teach?
- 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.
What is Niagara N4?
Niagara N4 is a software framework used in the majority of commercial building automation installations. It allows technicians to integrate and control HVAC, lighting, energy, and other systems from a single interface.
