Home of Arkansas' only ammonia refrigeration training program

At Northwest Technical Institute (NWTI) in Springdale, Arkansas, we understand the critical role that skilled technicians play in the success of industrial operations. That’s why we offer customized industry training programs designed to meet the workforce needs of local and regional employers.

Our Industrial Maintenance and Ammonia Refrigeration Technology (IMART) training programs provide hands-on, real-world instruction to help businesses improve safety, enhance efficiency, and maintain compliance with industry regulations. Whether you need to upskill your current workforce or train new employees, NWTI delivers flexible training solutions tailored to your company’s unique needs.

Partner with NWTI to equip your team with the skills and certifications necessary to thrive in today’s fast-paced industrial environment.

Where you'll train:

NWTI Industrial Maintenance & Ammonia Refrigeration Technology (IMART) Building
Springdale, AR

Where to fly:

Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)
Bentonville, AR

Where to stay:

Holiday Inn Springdale/Fayetteville Area
1500 South 48th Street, Springdale, AR
(479)601-8450
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Home2 Suites by Hilton Springdale
1519 S. 48th St. Springdale, AR 72762
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Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale
1700 S. 48th Street Springdale, AR 72762
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Hyatt Place Fayetteville/Springdale
348 East Van Asche, Fayetteville, AR 72703
(479)756-6101
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Fairfield Inn & Suites Fayetteville
755 Van Asche Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72703
479-551-9270
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How long:

Employees can complete essential IMART training in as little as one week, with modular courses that allow them to step in at their skill level and progress at their own pace. Training options are stackable, ensuring a seamless path for continuous skill development.

How to register:

Have Questions?
Fill out an Interest Form or contact Jeremy Sherman.

Our Equipment

Students train on various industry-grade equipment, ensuring they gain experience with the same advanced systems used in the field. From refrigeration compressors and control systems to hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical troubleshooting tools, our training environment mirrors real-world industrial settings, giving participants the confidence and technical skills to excel on the job.

COMING SOON: A virtual tour of our entire Industrial Maintenance facility!

Our Instructors

NWTI instructors are lifelong industry experts with years of hands-on experience in ammonia refrigeration, industrial maintenance, and manufacturing operations. Their deep knowledge and practical insights provide students with real-world applications and problem-solving skills essential for success in today’s fast-paced industrial workforce.

PHOTO:  Jeremy Sherman smiling in front of ammonia refrigeration system

Jeremy Sherman

Industrial Maintenance - Ammonia Refrigeration Instructor

As a second-generation professional in the industrial refrigeration industry, Jeremy Sherman brings over 20 years of hands-on experience in ammonia refrigeration, system maintenance, and process safety management. Currently serving as an instructor, he is dedicated to training the next generation of technicians, sharing both technical expertise and real-world insights from his extensive career.

Jeremy has held various roles in refrigeration and maintenance, including technician, PSM coordinator, and service technician, giving him a well-rounded understanding of system operations, compliance, and troubleshooting. His expertise extends to PSM/RMP compliance, high-pressure steam boilers, and electrical systems, making him a trusted authority in the field.

With a strong foundation in industrial refrigeration operations and a passion for mentoring others, Jeremy is committed to advancing safety, efficiency, and technical excellence in the industry.

Email: jsherman@nwti.edu
Phone: (479) 751-8824 ext. 156

PHOTO:  Michel Lingerfelt smiling in front of ammonia refrigeration system

Michael Lingerfelt

Industrial Maintenance - Instructor
Department Chair

With over 35 years of experience in the industrial maintenance field, Mike specializes in controls and automation. After completing an Associate degree in Electronics from a trade school, he began his career in 1972. Mike is passionate about the field and believes that curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a deep desire to understand how things work are essential traits for success in industrial maintenance.

He is also a Licensed Industrial Electrician and Boiler Operator, with extensive experience working with various industrial systems, including electronic, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, servo, and robotic systems. His troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are unmatched, making him a valuable asset in the industrial field.

Mike has held a range of positions throughout his career. Most recently, he worked as a Controls and Power Technician at Fleming Controls and Power Specialties in Bentonville, AR (2020-2021), where he provided services such as troubleshooting PLC and hardwired controls, designing and implementing control systems for new installations, and power quality analysis.

Prior to this, Mike was a Senior Controls Specialist at Simmons Pet Food in Siloam Springs, AR (2013-2020), where he was responsible for managing all electrical and controls systems across multiple plants, leading capital projects, expansions, and upgrades. He also trained and provided support for personnel across all facilities. From 2006-2013, Mike served as the Controls/Electrical Lead at Simmons Pet Food, overseeing plant electrical and automation systems and implementing system modifications to improve safety, productivity, and operator ergonomics.

Earlier in his career, Mike gained valuable experience at Webb Wheel Products (1997-2006) and Superior Industries (1990-1997), where he maintained CNC controls, robotic systems, and wrote custom PLC programs for various systems.

Email: mlingerfelt@nwti.edu
Phone: (479) 751-8824 ext. 161

Mike Klutts

Industrial Maintenance - Instructor

Mike Klutts is a second-generation industrial maintenance professional with over 20 years of hands-on experience.

Email: mklutts@nwti.edu

Customized Industry Training:

In addition to Industrial Maintenance and Ammonia Refrigeration Technology, NWTI offers a wide variety of flexible, high-quality training designed for your workforce. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Welding & Fabrication – Practical training in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and metal fabrication.

  • HVAC & Electrical Systems – Training on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and electrical troubleshooting.

  • Commercial Truck Driving (CDL) – Professional driver training to meet regional and national transportation needs.

  • Manufacturing & Automation – Robotics, automation, and process control for modern manufacturing environments.

  • Workplace Safety & Compliance – OSHA, HAZMAT, and other essential safety certifications.

Let NWTI help you build a stronger workforce. Contact us today to develop a training program customized to your needs.