Choosing a Career as an HVAC Technician 

Get the answers to your questions about a career in HVAC

What do HVAC technicians do?
HVAC technicians install, maintain and repair heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems. Designed to maintain temperature, humidity and air quality, these systems are located in most residential, commercial and industrial buildings. HVAC technicians often focus on a specific area, such as heating, air conditioning, or refrigeration.

What training do I need to become an HVAC technician?
Most trade and technical schools can get you started in heating and cooling. Upon taking heating and cooling classes through a trade or technical school, you will learn about electricity fundamentals and circuits, refrigeration basics, HVAC components and controls, duct design and airflow principles, indoor air quality, alternative energy, and residential and commercial HVAC applications.

Another option is to complete a formal apprenticeship under an HVAC professional. Although it is possible to learn a great deal through on-the-job experience, those with formal classroom training and a familiarity with increasingly sophisticated equipment often have a competitive advantage when seeking jobs. While you do not need a contractor license in Kansas or Missouri, completing an HVAC certification program can be the fastest route to an entry-level position in the climate control industry.

What is involved in an HVAC training program?
Most HVAC technician training programs cover electricity and refrigeration fundamentals combined with customer service techniques. Traditional classroom lectures are supplemented with hands-on lab instruction. The skills you learn can be applied to both residential and commercial systems, and completing our 12-month HVAC certificate program in Kansas City will prepare you for an exciting career in the heating and cooling industry.

What type of work environment can I expect?
Job sites might vary, but HVAC technicians work virtually anywhere that requires climate-control equipment. Office buildings, private homes and public buildings such as hospitals are just a few examples. You might work for a contracting business, or you might be self-employed. Your job duties could include both indoor and outdoor work.

What is the job outlook for HVAC technicians?
The job outlook for HVAC certificate program graduates is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of HVAC technicians "is projected to increase 28 percent during the 2008-18 decade, much faster than the average for all occupations." Demand for labor will be consistent, as new construction will require equipment installation, and older systems will need to be repaired or replaced. In addition, employers will continue to seek technicians with computer experience and knowledge of energy-efficient practices.