For Manish J., owner of Third Coast Spray Foam in Fruitport, running a small insulation business is about building trust with customers. Since 2017, his company has served homes, businesses and even shipping containers across West Michigan. But like many small business owners, Manish wanted to sharpen his skills and stand out in a competitive market. That’s why he and one of his employees decided to pursue additional certifications through DTE’s Energy Efficiency Academy.
The Academy, in partnership with Walker-Miller Energy Services, is a paid, hands-on training program that provides nationally recognized certifications in areas like building science, insulation, HVAC and electrical work. These credentials open new doors for small business owners and their teams, helping them grow their companies and meet the rising demand for energy-efficient solutions.
“The certifications set us apart,” said Manish. “When I talk to potential customers now, I have much more confidence in what I’m recommending because I know it’s backed by science and best practices. That knowledge we gained from the Academy helps us grow as a business and give customers peace of mind that our insulation work is done right and will last.”
Manish and his employee gained a deeper understanding of how insulation interacts with other building systems, particularly HVAC, and its impact on indoor air quality. The training highlighted how small changes in insulation installation can affect airflow patterns, humidity levels and the performance of existing heating and cooling systems. This knowledge allowed them to anticipate potential issues in the homes and the training directly influenced their recommendations in the field.
“I regularly need to communicate technical recommendations clearly to homeowners and contractors who are unfamiliar with how insulation interacts with other building systems,” said Manish. “The Academy equipped our company with the skills to translate complex concepts into practical, understandable recommendations that help homeowners improve energy efficiency and overall performance in their homes.”
With a 94% graduation rate and 90% of eligible participants securing jobs, the Energy Efficiency Academy is ensuring Michigan contractors have the tools to succeed while supporting homeowners with reliable, energy-efficient upgrades.
If you or someone you know is ready to take the next step toward a fulfilling career in clean energy, visit empoweringmichigan.com/EEAcademy to learn more.