The hvac field is becoming increasingly complex. Today’s systems are having to comply with more laws, more rules and market demands, all of which people working in the field must be aware of and have an in depth knowledge of. Some of these include government regulations and increasingly market demands for green technology. All this complicates the systems and processes. So those seeking an hvac career need to be in tune with all these demands and a good training process is a must for a solid career in the heating, air conditioning and refrigeration field.
Education is important and so is first hand work and there are two options to receive HVAC training: apprenticeships and vocational schools.
HVAC Apprenticeship
An hvac apprenticeship may be offered any of the following: Air-Conditioning Contractors of America, the Mechanical Contractors Association of America, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association, Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States, Associated Builders and Contractors, and the National Association of Home Builders.
An apprenticeships is a combination of both classroom study and hands on work that is paid. It takes longer to complete then a vocational school: usually three to five years. Being an apprentice is more hands on then a vocational school. In addition to class training an apprentice will focus on safety practices, the use and care of tools, blueprint management and reading, and the theory and design of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems. While on the job an apprentice will learn and participate in actual installation, cutting and soldering and montage of parts. Upon completion the student apprentice will become and hvac technician.
HVAC Trade Schools
When you choose a vocational school there are many things to consider. First off is to check the schools accreditation, an accreditation accreditation is to ensure that education provided by institutions of higher education meets acceptable levels of quality.
In addition ensure that the center is accredited by either HVAC Excellence; the National Center for Construction Education and Research; or the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation. Depending on you level of training and actual pursuit the training can take from 6 months to 2 years.
Students learn installation, repair and maintenance. Upon successful graduation a student will be a qualified technician.
