Get Out of Your Dead-End Job and Try HVAC Today
A career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) can open doors to new possibilities. As a HVAC technician, you will be involved in the maintenance and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. You will help install and repair various types of technology and machinery that aids in climate control in commercial and residential settings.
Training for a Career as an HVAC Technician
HVAC systems are increasingly technical, and you’ll need specialized training or even an apprenticeship to start your career. Programs may range anywhere from six months to two years in duration. Formal apprenticeships programs normally last three to five years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Here you’ll discover classes in electrical systems, safety practices, blue print reading, and HVAC construction, theory and design. You will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Math and reading skills are important for this line of work The HVAC field is becoming more professionalized, and several programs have set academic standards for HVAC programs. Accreditations include HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation (PHARA). If you choose to work with refrigeration systems, certification is required to handle the refrigerants. Exams are administered by organizations approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, such as unions, trade schools, contractor associations, or building groups.
HVAC Careers Can Be Hot
The outlook for careers in the HVAC industry looks bright. According the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), job prospects for HVAC mechanics and installers will be excellent as rapidly growing areas of the U.S. continue to develop and expand. BLS lists median hourly wages for HVAC workers at $17.43 in May 2004.
Get Out of Your Dead-End Job and Try HVAC Today
A career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) can open doors to new possibilities. As a HVAC technician, you will be involved in the maintenance and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. You will help install and repair various …
