Overview of Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR):

The Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) Associate degree program provides students with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to install and maintain HVAC/R systems, as well as troubleshoot and repair a variety of systems. The program generally covers installation techniques, principles of electricity, conduct chemical analyses and testing, ventilation fundamentals, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, heating maintenance, and energy conservation technologies.

What are the career opportunities for graduates with an associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)?

Graduates with an associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) can pursue careers in many roles including HVAC/R service technicians, installers, refrigeration technicians, HVAC/R engineers, and project managers. Potential work settings may include heating and air conditioning companies, manufacturing facilities, public utilities, and architectural and engineering firms.

Are there internship or co-op opportunities related to Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)?

Most colleges and universities offering HVAC/R associate degree programs typically have internship and co-op opportunities available to students. In some cases, students may have the chance to participate in hands-on training during their academic program. Additionally, some programs may partner with specific companies to provide students with additional job experience and professional networking opportunities.

Are there specialized tracks or concentrations within Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)?

The course offerings and concentrations of an HVAC/R associate degree program may vary from school to school. Some programs may offer specialized tracks or classes that are designed to provide students with additional focus and expertise in a certain HVAC/R area, such as energy efficient refrigeration systems, comfort systems, or air conditioning and heating systems. Additionally, some schools may offer specific classes, such as environmental law or sustainable building operations.

How does an associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) prepare students for further education?

Individuals who have completed an associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) may be eligible to pursue additional educational opportunities such as a bachelor’s degree in building sciences or engineering technology. Further education can provide students with the additional knowledge and advanced skills necessary to move their career to a higher level, which may include additional job opportunities.

Impact of artificial intelligence on Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)?

As with many industries, automation and artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly prevalent in the HVAC/R industry. New technologies are bringing forth innovative solutions to common problems, such as predictive maintenance and remote monitoring. AI is also being used to help reduce energy consumption, while improving the comfort and safety of buildings. As such, graduates of HVAC/R programs should be prepared to adapt to new technologies and maintain the skills necessary to utilize them effectively and safely.

The career outlook for Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)?

The outlook for those holding an associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) is generally positive. Employment in the field is expected to grow by 11% through 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, from an estimated 498,400 jobs in 2018 to 553,200 jobs in 2028. Furthermore, job availability in this field is expected to increase due to the ongoing maintenance and repair of existing HVAC/R systems, as well as the installation of new systems. As environmental awareness and sustainability become increasingly important for businesses and consumers, demand for HVAC/R technicians will likely increase.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR):

Hennepin Technical College, Salary: $67,613

Northern Virginia Community College, Salary: $61,129

Dunwoody College of Technology, Salary: $57,518

Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Salary: $55,407

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, Salary: $53,241

Century College, Salary: $49,485

Northeast Community College, Salary: $45,138

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, Salary: $43,624

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Salary: $43,349

Hudson Valley Community College, Salary: $41,929

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their associate degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR).