How to Explore a Career As an HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians are in demand and command good salaries.

Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning technicians are in high demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports they will be in even higher demand in the decade of 2008 to 2018. HVAC is a growth industry, and someone with the mechanical aptitude and knowledge base required to work in it will find ample job opportunities and wage of approximately $20 per hour as of 2008. There are many ways to explore the HVAC field without committing to the career.

Instructions

1. Take courses in science and math in high school, and any shop or mechanic classes offered. These courses will give you an overview of the sorts of skills and abilities you will need in order to work as an HVAC technician. Knowing the skill set of HVAC technicians will help you decide if you have the physical and intellectual capabilities required, and if the type of work will appeal to you.

2. Attend a trade school that offers a diploma or certification program in HVAC. If there isn't one near you, find one that offers courses in plumbing and electrical work. Both plumbing and electrical are important skills sets for HVAC technicians. You will need to have your high school diploma or GED, and the programs can take up to two years to complete.

3. Find a job as an entry level unskilled worker for a HVAC company, and let them know you want to work in the field with an HVAC tech to see if that is a career path you wish to follow. Most unskilled labor jobs only require you have a high school diploma, so you can get a feel for the work before paying for a trade school education. Check your local papers, online job websites and other job resources for open positions. You can also contact any local HVAC companies directly to ask about open positions or apply.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a job as unskilled labor with an HVAC company, you may be able to apprentice with them if you choose to pursue an HVAC technician career. Look for employment with those companies able to train apprentices.

References

• US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics: Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
• DegreeDirectory.org: HVAC Technology: How to Become a HVAC Technician in 5 Steps
• HVACcertification.net: HVAC Certification and HVAC Training

Resources

• PAHRA: PAHRA Accredited Educational Organizations
• HVAC Excellence: HVACR Programmatic Accreditation
• NCCER: Find a Training or Assessment Center