The energy transition calls for new technical and professional skills. Against this backdrop, training is one of the most important tools for guiding the industry towards more sustainable production models.
It is precisely with this in mind that we have long been collaborating with the ITS GREEN Academy in Vimercate, where we are committed to promoting training courses for technicians specialising in hydrogen.
Furthermore, during the 2025–2026 academic year, our training activities at the ITS Green Academy have been enhanced by a series of lessons integrated with the new hydrogen laboratory.
Through theoretical lessons and laboratory activities, students now have the opportunity to explore the main applications of hydrogen, understand the technologies used in industrial plants and acquire practical skills that can be directly applied in the workplace.
The laboratory therefore represents a practical learning environment, where theory and practice are integrated to train specialised technicians capable of working in the new energy landscape.
Hydrogen: properties, applications and why it is a key skill today
The course begins with a series of introductory lectures focusing on the chemical and physical properties of hydrogen and on technologies for its production, storage and conversion into energy for end users.
During the classroom sessions, the various applications of hydrogen are explored in depth:
- use of hydrogen in industrial systems
- use in energy storage processes
- applications in sustainable mobility
- integration with renewable energy sources
Students also have the opportunity to learn about regulatory aspects, including general training on national and European incentives available to those investing in hydrogen technologies.
This first module therefore provides the scientific, technical and regulatory foundations necessary to understand the role of hydrogen in the context of decarbonising industry and mobility.
Hydrogen production technologies: from electrolysis to storage
A central part of the course focuses on the technologies used to produce, store and utilise hydrogen.
Among these, particular attention is given to water electrolysis, the process that enables hydrogen to be produced by splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen using electrical energy.
The course covers:
- the main types of electrolysers
- hydrogen compression and storage systems
- energy conversion technologies
- end-use applications across various industrial sectors and in mobility.
Students will also learn about products available on the market, including through the analysis of components and systems used in real-world installations.
Hydrogen cars, mobility and hydrogen refuelling processes
Hydrogen is now one of the most promising energy carriers, including for the mobility sector. For this reason, the training programme also includes an in-depth study of transport applications and hydrogen refuelling processes.
Students analyse the operation of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and, in particular:
- the role of fuel cells
- the conversion of hydrogen into electrical energy
- on-board gas storage systems
- refuelling infrastructure
A particularly significant part of the workshop is the practical demonstration of a refuelling process, which allows students to observe first-hand the operational procedures and technologies used at refuelling stations.
This type of experience enables a direct link to be made between theory and real-world applications, facilitating an understanding of the operational dynamics of hydrogen mobility.
From block flow diagrams to P&IDs: practical exercises
Alongside theoretical training, the course includes numerous practical exercises, designed to familiarise students with the typical activities of technicians working in the hydrogen sector.
One of the main exercises involves the preliminary design of a plant through the creation of a Block Flow Diagram (BFD). This tool represents one of the first stages of design and enables the general operation of a hydrogen plant to be described.
Furthermore, students gain a deeper understanding of technical design through the creation of P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram) diagrams, which allow for the detailed representation of piping, valves, measuring instruments and plant components.
Specifically, the practical exercises include:
- reverse engineering exercises on plant components
- modelling and validation of components
- demonstrations of the operation and use of control software
- assembly and disassembly of ‘dummy’ components to understand their operating principles
These exercises enable students to develop practical skills and familiarise themselves with the tools used in the design and management of hydrogen plants.
Safety and regulations: how to recognise risks and identify procedures
Safety is a fundamental aspect of hydrogen management. For this reason, the training programme also covers safety regulations and operational procedures.
During the lessons, topics such as the following are covered:
- relevant regulations for the use of hydrogen
- safety systems in plants
- identification of operational risks
- safety signage and symbols
The laboratory also hosts practical safety training sessions, during which students learn to identify potentially hazardous situations, thereby developing a greater awareness of risks and acquiring the skills needed to operate hydrogen facilities safely.
Through these structured educational programmes featuring practical laboratory activities, students at the ITS GREEN Academy have the opportunity to engage directly with technologies and methodologies that represent the future of energy and industry. Indeed, investing in skills means preparing the technicians who will drive the energy transition in the coming years, contributing to the widespread adoption of innovative and sustainable hydrogen-based solutions.
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