HVAC & Refrigeration

About the Program

Wallace State helps up-and-coming heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) installers and service technicians gain the knowledge and skills they need to pass certification and licensing procedures in order to gain employment in this high-demand field.  And gain employment they do.  Wallace State's program has an outstanding reputation.

HVAC/R systems are diverse and consist of many different components. However, they all depend on the same mechanical, electrical and other scientific principles that allow these systems to perform the jobs that we depend on.

A technician may specialize in various aspects of the industry or they may regularly be exposed to many different tasks. Those who are successfully employed within the HVAC/R industry are required to have a strong technical comprehension, to practice proper working skills, and maintain high ethical standards. 

Due to advancements in technology and the increased need to meet ethical and trade standards, the industry prefers employees that have completed a formal technical program such as the HVAC/R program at Wallace State. This program provides a highly academic environment that focuses on the technical foundations of the industry along with practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises that helps students to develop their own marketable knowledge and skills. 

Wallace State's program also guides students in preparing for available industry certifications that help them to achieve their professional goals. Obtaining industry minimal and advanced certifications are highly recommended for those who aspire to become successful in the field. These certifications along with knowledge, craft skills, soft skills, and business skills greatly increase an individual's chance of high levels of success. 

Career Outlook

The United States Department of Labor predicts a growing need for skilled technicians due to increased awareness in air quality, environmental issues, energy consumption, and the rising need to control the comfort of occupied spaces as the population expands. These demands are met by a quickly diminishing supply of skilled technicians. These circumstances present an excellent opportunity for those interested in entering the HVAC/R industry. This may be the most opportunistic time that the HVAC/R industry has ever enjoyed. 

Expectations of competitive wages and a rewarding career by a skilled technician or a motivated business person are considered to be very attainable. Recent statistics provided by the United States Department of Labor show very positive data for the HVAC/R industry. The median income reported at the end of 2017 is $47,080 with a median hourly wage at 20.98 per hour. These figures are very attainable and will likely be surpassed by a driven technician who focuses on their education and skills.

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