If you like working with your hands and are not really fond of sitting at a desk all day, then you might want to consider a career as an HVAC (HVACR) Engineer or Technician. To do so, you can start off by enrolling in one of the many HVAC programs offered by universities and technical training institutes in the US.
Many professions are set to experience exponential growth in the coming years. For example, jobs for Wind Turbine Technicians are predicted to grow by a mammoth 57% (nearly 4,000 new jobs) from 2018 to 2028. So, if this has sparked your interest in HVAC programs, then read on for the best degrees and most attractive career paths.
What Are HVAC Programs?
HVAC or HVACR stands for “Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration.” These technical systems are utilized to maintain the temperature (heating, cooling, humidity levels, etc.) and environment within buildings, vehicles, etc. Study programs in the field teach students about installing, maintaining, and repairing various air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems. Other technological vocations can also be pursued.
What Can You Do With an HVAC Program?
Professional education in HVACR systems can help you find employment as a Design Engineer, Gas Utilities Technician, Auto Repair Specialist, Mechanical Engineer, HVAC Technician, HVAC Installer, Boilermaker, Testing Engineer, Environmental Solutions Engineer, etc.
The following section will provide you the latest information about salary and career outlook for a few of these occupations. All the figures and projections have been taken from the records of the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Wind Turbine Service Technicians
Wind Turbine Service Technicians are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining wind turbines. They are also referred to as “wind techs.”
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $52,910 | 57% | $56,700 | Texas | 1,600 |
| West Virginia | $80,280 |
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $48,730 | 48% | $51,420 | Florida | 31,710 |
| District of Columbia | $71,940 |
What to Expect from an HVAC Program?
A typical HVAC study program will teach you about Electrical Load Computation, Air Flow and Balancing, Energy Calculations, Pumps, and Piping Systems, Air Handling Equipment, Basic Heating Systems, Basics of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Electrical Wiring, Safety Equipment Usage, Automotive Repair, Gas Utilities, Use of Refrigerants, System Charging and Evacuation, All-Weather Systems Installation, etc.
How to Choose an HVAC Program?
“Accreditation status” is the most important consideration when choosing any post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree to pursue. An HVAC program is no different. Make sure that the course you go for is fully recognized and accredited. Other than that, you should also look at the curriculum, campus location, fee structure, ease of commute, and available residential facilities (on-campus and off-campus) when making a decision.
HVAC Program Admission Requirements
Admission requirements are primarily based on degree level. Some schools might also have their own individual conditions in place. Generally, however, a High School Diploma or GED (General Educational Development) Certificate is needed to enroll in an Associate degree or Certificate/Diploma program.
In contrast, pursuing a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering degree may also require you to take a standardized test like the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) or ACT (American College Testing).