Whether record-breaking heat, floodwaters, or prolonged use break down a unit, businesses and homes call HVAC mechanics and installers at the first sign of trouble. When combining the booming residential and commercial construction activity with the all-year-round need, it is no wonder that HVAC technicians are high in demand.
Qualified HVAC technicians with good education are set for a 14 percent increase in demand by 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Estimates show that approximately 56 thousand technicians will be required in the next few years to install and maintain HVAC units.
A high-quality education is required before setting off for an HVAC career.
The Air Conditioning Technician I and II classes from Houston Community College, including an introduction to HVAC principles, tools, terminology and skills are a good start. Students gain basic knowledge of the air conditioning principles including thermodynamics, air properties, compressors, and maintenance operations. They are also prepared to become EPA-certified.
As Tom Tynan, who is the director of Construction Trades and School of Continuing Education at HCC, puts it, “HVAC technicians seem to be in a constant shortage, due to Houston’s growing population.”
“Houston is the top air conditioning city in the world,” he said. “If you are prepared for it, this is the best time of the year. Our class schedules span throughout the day – morning or night – and even the weekends, and we offer lab supplies as well.”
With HCC’s program students train as installers so they can start at entry level.
Then, training steps up to the maintenance technician level.
According to BLS, the median annual salary for air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration installers and mechanics in May 2015 reached $45,110. The highest 10% earned more than $71,6, whereas the lowest 10% made less than $27,790.
HVAC training is also provided by Lone Star College’s National Center for Construction Education and Research certificates program.
It is a fast-track program with recognition in important training, certification, assessment, and career development credentialing for the maintenance and construction craft professions.
According to Kelsey Poe, Director of Marketing and Sales at CMPcorp, “Training and education in the HVAC trade is comprehensive with lot of options. In addition to the required certifications, HVAC technicians can really expand their knowledge and keep up with the trade with continuing education.”
Another path that students can pursue to get ready for an HVAC career is LSC’s Associate of Applied Science Degree.
Students will study electronic, electrical and mechanical systems associated with modern environmental controls.
Major business continues to gather in Houston providing technicians with even more possibilities.
Daikin Industries Ltd. intends to build a new Houston-based campus, with a worth of $417 million, with the purpose of expanding its Goodman operations in the United States. This Daikin campus is reported to feature one of the country’s biggest and most advanced HVAC manufacturing facilities. Furthermore, it will be capable of manufacturing both ductless and ducted HVAC products.
According to Tynan, qualified students will have financial aid for classes, so consider setting off on a new career while you can.
“Our classes are almost overbooked. There is ample job availability. If air conditioning is your interest, there is no better place to be at the moment,” he added.
