Is a Career in HVAC Right for You?

Does sitting at a desk from 9 to 5 sound unappealing to you? If you enjoy mechanical work and would prefer do something hands-on you may want to consider earning a trade school diploma to become a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) technician.

High school graduates have many options when it comes to higher education. The traditional four-year college is expensive, time consuming and often leads to needing further education for a specific field. Attending a trade college is more cost and time efficient. Many students are able to reach their career goals in a more timely fashion.

If you want a career in a profession for which there will always be a need for your skills, then becoming an HVAC technician is a smart route to pursue. An HVAC technician works in a variety of commercial, industrial, and residential settings installing, repairing and maintaining mechanical and electronic equipment, such as heating and air conditioning units, compressors, thermostats, condensers, fans, piping, and ducts.

Students in an HVAC program will learn how to install, repair and maintain heating, cooling, and refrigeration equipment in commercial settings and personal residences. Students learn to work with low-pressure steam and hydronics, controls, steam operated equipment, and much more. They gain theoretical knowledge along with hands-on lab instruction that can prepare them to take on the installation, maintenance and repair of any system. One can gain valuable skills that can translate into all facets of life. In addition, students will be prepared to take industry certification exams from a variety of national associations. Entry- level positions in the HVAC field can include service technician, mechanic and installation technician.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) the job growth prospects for HVAC technicians will be especially high. Through 2014, estimated occupational growth is expected to be faster than average for all industries, with a projected growth of 18 to 26 percent.

Due to the nature of the industry, certification as an HVAC Technician will benefit you not only in terms of a better salary, but stability as well. Studies have found that training from an accredited technical school greatly increases employment potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that obtaining certification through one of several organizations is recommended by employers and could increase your advancement opportunities. Not only will you become knowledgeable in HVAC systems, both installation and repair, you will gain recognition as a certified technician.

Heating and air conditioning systems are essential to living and conducting business in virtually every part of the country. Installation and maintenance are indispensable needs that require a specialist. The necessity for climate-control systems in all types of buildings and situations will open doors for potential careers in industries such as residential and commercial construction, industrial HVAC systems, and independent contracting, and more. Making a career in HVAC services could be the right choice for you.

Editorial provided by Kate Spies, Campus Director of Vatterott College in Cleveland.