NEW DELHI (India CSR): Striving to support social development and workforce empowerment, Elanpro, India’s technology-oriented commercial refrigeration company, announced the launch of the pilot phase of its CSR initiative – “Cool Skills, Bright Future”. Aligned with World Youth Skills Day 2025, the program aims to train 100 aspiring commercial refrigeration service technicians, marking the company’s first step toward building a stronger, more inclusive technical workforce.
Skill Development Design
The skill development program is designed to bridge the talent gap in the sector by offering a comprehensive six-week module combining interactive classroom learning, hands-on experience with real-world refrigeration systems and performance assessments. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to operate, maintain and troubleshoot refrigeration equipment, enhancing their employability in fast growing industry. To strengthen skill to employment pipeline, a select group of certified trainees will also be offered internship and placement opportunities.
Pilot Phase Cities
The pilot phase of the program is being rolled out in three cities – Noida, Guwahati and Vadodara in collaboration with local SME training partners from each region. The initiative follows a structured delivery model focused on both vocational and sectoral competencies, along with apprenticeship exposure. It also emphasizes diversity and inclusion, with a goal of ensuring a strong representation of women beneficiaries. Participants will gain practical exposure through mentorship by industry experts, project-based learning, and corporate engagement.
Industry Growth Insight
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjay Jain, Director, Elanpro, said, “India’s commercial refrigeration industry is growing at over 15% annually, driven by the boom in QSRs, quick commerce, and F&B retail. Yet, there’s a clear shortage of qualified service technicians. As refrigeration systems evolve with smart technologies and low-GWP refrigerants, the need for skilled technicians has never been more critical – they are the backbone of this ecosystem.
Program Vision Statement
Through Cool Skills, Bright Future, we aim to build a future ready workforce equipped to meet industry standards and support India’s evolving refrigeration needs. The program will enhance employability and boost income-earning potential for youth across the country.”
Growing Equipment Demand
The demand for advanced refrigeration equipment continues to surge, driven by the rapid growth of quick service restaurants, cloud kitchens, ice cream parlours, and artisanal dairy brands. Parallelly, the expansion of D2C food businesses and e-commerce has intensified the need for cold storage at every stage, from production to last-mile delivery.
Training Gap Issue
Despite this growth, nearly 75% of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning service technicians in India remain without formal training or certification. This skill gap puts service quality, safety, and environmental standards at risk.
Skill Mission Alignment
Cool Skills, Bright Future addresses this challenge by laying the foundation for broader upskilling and supporting the Skill India Mission for safe, efficient, and sustainable cooling infrastructure.
Program Rollout Update
With the inaugural phase completed in Noida and the programs in Guwahati and Vadodara underway until September 2025, Elanpro aims to expand its contribution to India’s skilling ecosystem.
Future Program Expansion
The next phase of the program will focus on identifying new training locations, enhancing program quality, and continuing long-term CSR support in regions where skilled refrigeration technicians are most needed.
(India CSR)
