Preparing for a Career as an HVAC Technician Through High School Vo-Tech Programs

High school students who are planning to pursue a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) should consider enrolling in a vocational and technical school in their state or locality. HVAC technicians utilize practical skills in installing the heating and cooling systems of any structure and in maintaining the optimal performance of these systems. Vocational and technical schools provide the essential skills and competencies necessary in acquiring work as an installer or technician. More recent teaching methods use a combination of visual, auditory and oral learning to be sure that all students have an equal opportunity to discover the world of their preferred career track.

High school students can start early on their professional training by participating in an HVAC program in their school. Many high schools incorporate vo-tech programs in their curriculum to give students a head start on careers in the trades industry. In preparation for enrollment, high school students need to hone their skills in math, applied physics and other related subjects. Enrollment in electronics, mechanics and computer applications is also beneficial to the high school student.

Training and Degree Programs

There are three types of HVAC training programs offered by vocational and technical schools. Prospective students are provided the option to take a certificate, diploma, or an associate’s degree. The associate’s degree program usually takes two years to complete.

There are core skills and competencies that the student needs to acquire in order to successfully complete a training or degree program. Schools and training institutions usually include foundation courses such as fundamentals in heating, cooling refrigeration systems; installation and repair of systems; air quality and temperature control, and; other related course components. In some programs using a specific teach method, these are learned through hands-on visual experience, oral repetition and listening to informative presentations.

Before enrolling in a vocational and technical school, the prospective trainee should check if the courses offered in the institution are approved by a certifying agency for HVAC training programs. One of these agencies is the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation. This agency is in-charge of setting the standard for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning training courses and programs.

Apprenticeship and Certification

After completion of the training or degree program, the graduate is also required to sign up for an apprenticeship program in their locality. These apprenticeship programs may be supported or endorsed by the local chapter of the national association of builders and contractors or other accredited trade and journeyman groups. Apprenticeship programs consist of instruction and paid training during a specified time frame.

In terms of licensure to practice as an HVAC technician, there are different certification requirements per state and locality. As a prerequisite for certification, some localities require completion of the apprenticeship program plus testing. The certification tests usually consist of questions pertaining to safety and environmental codes, HVAC system fundamentals, and servicing and maintenance.

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