Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (5267)
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At a Glance
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This PSAV program’s course content includes broad, transferable skills, and stresses the understanding of all aspects of the heating, air conditioning and refrigeration industry. The curriculum emphasizes operational functions of the HVAC industry such as management, finance, technical and production skills. The underlying principles of technology, labor issues, health, safety and environmental issues are also covered. |
Employment Opportunities |
Upon completion of this program, you may seek employment as a heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer. Other employable areas include finding employment in a variety of industries throughout the country working for fuel oil dealers, refrigeration and air-conditioning service and repair shops, schools, and stores that sell heating and air-conditioning systems. Local governments, the federal government, hospitals, office buildings, and other organizations that operate large air-conditioning, refrigeration, or heating systems also employ mechanics in this field.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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Job Outlook |
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics in the Choices Planner, opportunities for mechanics in this field are increasing. A total of 9,000 average annual openings are expected for this occupation between 2004 and 2014.
Choices Planner (Choose Jump in, Choices Planner, Work Tab) Heating and Air-Conditioning Mechanic
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Salary Information |
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average annual Florida wage is $35,630. The entry average annual hourly wage is $17.13 compared to an experienced Florida hourly wage of $19.73. The annual experienced annual Florida wage is $41,038. Apprentices usually begin at about 50 percent of the wage rate paid to experienced workers. As they gain experience and improve their skills, they receive periodic increases until they reach the wage rate of experienced workers. Heating and air-conditioning mechanics enjoy a variety of employer-sponsored benefits. In addition to typical benefits like health insurance and pension plans, some employers pay for work-related training and provide uniforms, company vans, and tools.
Choices Planner (Choose Jump in, Choices Planner, Work Tab) Heating and Air-Conditioning Mechanic
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| Special Skills or Qualifications Needed |
Technicians must be able to maintain, diagnose, and correct problems throughout the entire heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems consisting of many mechanical, electrical, and electronic components such as motors, compressors, pumps, fans, ducts, pipes, thermostats, and switches. Technicians must also be able to install and repair systems. Some technicians also will sell contracts to their clients. Mechanics and installers use a variety of tools when from hammers, wrenches, electric drills, to pipe cutters and working with refrigerant lines and air ducts. They also use voltmeters, pressure gauges, and other testing devices to check airflow, refrigerant pressure, electrical circuits, burners, and other components. |
| Career Path Notes |
Many programs have transfer agreements with other colleges and universities that allow students to transfer course or program credit into a four-year program. For information on transfer agreements, visit www.pbcc.edu/transfer.xml. |
Career Planning Suggestions for Success |
Thoroughly research the occupation and talk with a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technician to learn more about this particular field. For more information, refer to the Career Center.
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