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What Does It Take to Be an HVAC Technician?

What Does It Take to Be an HVAC Technician?

People generally don’t give a lot of thought to their HVAC systems until it breaks down. If the heating or air-conditioning system stops working, we find ourselves searching for an HVAC technician.

With a 2021 median pay of $48,630 per year according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a career as an HVAC technician could be highly rewarding, especially if a typical office job is not your thing

But how do you become an HVAC technician? Here is a 5-step process that can help you get there-

  1. Begin with a High School Diploma or Equivalent

    2. In the majority of the states in the US, you must possess a high school diploma or Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED) if you want to become an HVAC technician. High school students wanting to pursue this career can get a head start by focusing on the subjects that are relevant to the HVAC industry.

    Ensure your course includes-

    • Mathematics
    • Computer Science
    • Physics
    • Shop Classes

    If the high school offers classes in technical math, mechanical drawing, and blueprint reading, you should definitely consider taking them as they will equip you with the skills necessary to become an HVAC technician.

  2. Complete HVAC Training

    3. Once you have your high school diploma or GED, you’ll have to take additional classes for earning your HVAC certificate. It is worth noting that in some states, you can start working in the HVAC industry without a certificate. However, in most states like California, you’ll need additional training and education.

    As far as the HVAC training is concerned, you can complete a certificate or diploma program, take an associate degree, or even complete a bachelor’s degree program. The program costs, subjects covered, and time commitment varies significantly.

    For instance, you can find 6-month diploma programs that cost around $1,200. For an associate degree, you’ll study for two years and spend around $8,000. Most people generally don’t take the bachelor’s degree program as it is significantly more expensive and takes a lot more time to complete.

  3. Start Your Apprenticeship

    4. According to BLS, most employers prefer HVAC technicians to have the required education and at least 3-5 years of apprenticeship. You can find various unions and contractor associations that offer such apprenticeship programs that involve on-job-training.

    According to BLS, most employers prefer HVAC technicians to have the required education and at least 3-5 years of apprenticeship. You can find various unions and contractor associations that offer such apprenticeship programs that involve on-job-training.

  4. Think About Certifications and State Licenses

    5. Most states in the country require HVAC technicians to have the necessary certifications and licenses. You can check the regulations of your state to know more.

    There are several technical institutes, trade schools, and community colleges that offer such certification programs. You can also consider getting certified by NATE which is the country’s largest organization offering certifications to HVAC technicians.

  5. Consider Additional Degree Programs

    6. Even after receiving the necessary education, certification, and completing the apprenticeship, you can consider additional degree programs to improve your job prospects.

    For instance, you can find certification programs for commercial furnaces, residential boilers, unit ventilators, and more.

Beeson Mechanical Service: Now Hiring HVAC Technicians in Whiteland

Searching for a well-paying HVAC technician job? Want to work with HVAC experts who’ve been in the industry for more than 20 years? Consider working with Beeson Mechanical Service.

Contact us at 317-535-9338 to know more about the job openings or fill out the online employee inquiry form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.