PHL Expands Facilities Training With Simulations
Philadelphia International Airport is using Interplay Learning simulations to train more than 500 facilities maintenance technicians.
Interplay Learning has partnered with Philadelphia International Airport to standardize facilities maintenance training through on-demand simulations. The program will support more than 500 technicians across seven terminals and 3.2 million square feet of infrastructure. PHL serves more than 30 million passengers annually and operates its facilities around the clock. The training is intended to support technician development as experienced staff retire.
Training Across Airport Systems
PHL’s facilities maintenance team maintains HVAC systems, central utility plants, electrical infrastructure, building automation systems, pumps and boilers. Interplay’s platform provides interactive troubleshooting scenarios intended to help technicians build job-ready skills while supporting airport operations.
Gregory Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at Philadelphia International Airport, said:
“As the skilled trades workforce continues to evolve, we're placing greater emphasis on building and sustaining internal technical capability. We needed a more consistent approach to training that ensures technicians are prepared to safely and effectively maintain critical airport systems while also helping strengthen skills across all experience levels throughout their careers.”
Structured Learning Paths
PHL is introducing learning paths in HVAC, building automation systems, electrical safety, pumps, boilers, OSHA requirements and EPA 608 certification. The on-demand format will support onboarding and ongoing development at multiple airport locations, including Northeast Philadelphia Airport.
Milton Robinson, Vice President of Facilities Maintenance at Philadelphia International Airport, said:
“What stood out to us was how practical the training is. If a technician needs to brush up on a specific system before tackling a job, it's available immediately. They can work through the material, practice troubleshooting scenarios like variable frequency drives and centrifugal pumps, and build confidence before they're working on equipment in the field.”
Supporting Technician Readiness
The program gives experienced technicians refreshers on advanced building automation systems while providing foundational technical training for newer employees. The airport is using the platform to create a consistent training approach across its maintenance workforce.
Doug Donovan, Chief Executive Officer at Interplay Learning, said:
“The skilled trades shortage is reshaping how organizations develop maintenance talent. Philadelphia International Airport is leading the way in building a structured training program that strengthens technician readiness and supports the safety and reliability of airport operations.”
