Ready to get started? Here are some resources and pathways you can explore to get started in a successful career as an HVAC technician!
H VAC Technician
Enhance others’ quality of life.
Heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC) is a lucrative industry that’s only increasing in demand. As an HVAC technician, you’ll hit the ground running in a variety of settings by installing, maintaining and repairing HVAC equipment. With opportunities to grow, you’ll be able to make a difference in the lives of others.
T he Perks
HVAC technicians are always needed, whether in residential or business settings. You’ll enjoy an active career with fast job growth, and you can easily move up in your career with additional training.
24
Months
It can take between 6 months and 2 years to complete an HVAC program.
14
Growth
HVAC technician jobs will grow by approximately 14% between 2014 and 2024
50,400
Salary
The average annual salary of an HVAC technician is $50,400.
Jonathan Smith
HVAC technician
I love the variety and challenges that come with being an HVAC technician. Every day is different, and the work never feels boring.
W hat Do I Need?
With just a handful of skills and requirements, you’ll be ready for an active career as an HVAC technician.
Technical or Trade Degree
HVAC technicians usually have a certificate or associate’s degree in an HVAC-related field.
Mechanical Aptitude
HVAC systems can be complex, so technicians need to be able to properly analyze and assemble/dissemble them.
Customer Service Skills
As an HVAC technician, you’ll be in contact with homeowners and other consumers each day, which requires politeness and punctuality.
Attention to Detail
HVAC technicians need to carefully perform their work as well as retain records of their work.
Math Skills
In this position, you’ll need to calculate the right load requirements in order for the HVAC equipment to heat and cool the space required.
Physical Endurance
HVAC technicians need to be able to lift heavy equipment as well as spend hours standing and walking.
Y our Resources
MET Center Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Services Technician Training Program
This 8-week course will teach students trade principles and the basics of refrigeration, including a description of what is taking place inside each of the main parts of a system. Students learn to read a temperature pressure chart, apply it to systems using different refrigerants and evaluate the system using their gauges. Also covered are basic electrical principles in a theory/shop format. Students begin with the nature of electricity and progress to electrical safety, electrical values, and generation of electricity, electrical circuits, electrical meters and wiring diagrams. All students are enrolled in Ranken Technical College.
Sheet Metal Workers Joint Apprenticeship Programs
Sheet Metal Workers Local 36 offers a 5-year, 10,000 hour training apprenticeship in HVAC service, installation, system design, duct fabrication, and welding. These apprenticeships allow students to earn while they learn and applications can be picked up on-site at the Local 36 Training Facility.
HVAC Operator I
5 weeks, 48 contact hour, non-credit training provides hands-on instruction to maintain and troubleshoot forced air systems and the basics on how the systems and control boards work.
Missouri Women in Trades
MOWIT is dedicated to expanding opportunities for women to enter and succeed in apprenticeship and careers in the construction and building trades of the greater St. Louis area. MOWIT supports women in accessing and advancing in all construction trades through a variety of programs, including workshops, mentoring programs, scholarships, and workshops for girls.
Learn 2 Earn – Ranken Technical College
Learn to Earn consists of a series of STEM activities offered between grades 6 – 12 that promote student participation in STEM careers, with an emphasis on recruiting female students. These registered activites can include in-school, out-of-school, summer activities, or addtional classes. Scholarship funding to Ranken is awarded to participating female students upon successful completion.
EXPLORE Energy with Ameren
The EXPLORE Energy program engages youth in multiple careers in the public utility industry, each essentially important to the energy services that Ameren offers to the region. Students spend 2-3 non-consecutive half days over the course of a school year at Ameren meeting with employee mentors, engaging in activities, touring, and forming connections that can lead to job opportunities.
