Why earn an HVAC Technology diploma?
Skilled HVAC technicians are in demand everywhere, as wherever people live or work there is need for climate controlled environments and wherever food is stored and prepared there is need for refrigeration units. If you would like the freedom of knowing you can easily find work wherever you go or even go into business for yourself, a career as an HVAC technician would be a good choice.
Career possibilities
You will be able to work as an HVAC service installation and repair technician or begin a career as an apprentice or journeyman HVAC mechanic. You could also work as a service and repair technician in a shop setting, or perhaps you could work in the field of HVAC sales - either selling HVAC systems to residential and industrial customers or selling parts to other HVAC shops or self-employed repair technicians.
Occupational outlook
It is expected that there will be a rapid increase in demand for HVAC technicians - the 2006 Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.BLS.gov) projects demand will grow between 18% and 26% by the year 2014.
Salary information
The 2006 Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.BLS.gov) records median hourly pay for HVAC technicians as $17.43, although in certain areas experienced HVAC technicians can earn well over $20 an hour.
Coursework requirements
- Fundamentals of refrigeration
- Fundamentals of heating
- Fundamentals of air conditioning
- Refrigeration systems and components
- Electrical systems and components
- Service operations
Skills you will learn
You will learn all about electrical wiring as it applies to heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. You will also learn the procedures for going out on service calls for installation and repair. You will have the opportunity to prepare for certification in refrigerant transition and recovery.
