Should I be an HVAC technician?

Are you looking for a career where:

• Each day is different?

• You're always learning about the latest technologies?

• There's a high level of job security?

• The day-to-day work is hands-on?

Becoming an HVAC technician might be right for you!

HVAC stands for:

• Heating

• Ventilation

• Air Conditioning

An HVAC technician installs, services, and repairs heating, air conditioning, and ventilation units.

HVAC systems help regulate indoor temperatures and filter the air within a building to keep it clean.

Where would I find an HVAC technician?

HVAC technicians work in lots of different settings. You can find them in:

• Homes (residential HVAC)

• Businesses (commercial HVAC)

• Factories and plants (industrial HVAC)

Job duties will depend on where you work, but HVAC technicians typically:

• Install, test, and maintain HVAC systems

• Troubleshoot systems when they aren't working as expected

• Repair or replace system parts

• Communicate with customers

• Make adjustments to HVAC systems

• Sell HVAC systems or service contracts

How much can I earn?

In the United States, the average base salary for HVAC technicians is $57,749 (USD).

In Canada, the average base salary for HVAC technicians is $54,740 (CAD).

These amounts don't include benefits and possible overtime pay.

• Want the ability to work anywhere. Everywhere needs HVAC technicians!

• Are interested in opportunities to specialize. From commercial to residential, there are many different areas you can work.

• Like the idea of helping your community feel comfortable in all seasons and breathe clean air.

• Physically demanding work and working outside in extreme temperatures (both hot and cold weather).

• Confined or dark spaces.

• Being on-call at times or working long hours to finish a project.

"I think I might be interested. What do I need to do?" you might be asking!

You'll need to:

• Graduate high school or earn your GED

• Attend trade school or community college, or train on-the-job as an apprentice

• Complete a paid 2-5 year apprenticeship (depending on location)

• Obtain a license as an HVAC technician (depending on location)

Who might consider a career as an HVAC technician?

A. Sam 👨 enjoys problem solving and fixing things. His grandpa taught him to repair items around the house. Sam is afraid of tight spaces.

B. Arif 🧑🏾 loves working outside no matter the weather. He's interested in a career with good job security that will let him move anywhere.

C. Elise 👩🏻 worked in her dad's auto body shop as a teenager, so she's familiar with all tools. Elise is looking for a career where she can train on the job.

D. Juan 👨🏽 is looking for a career where he can help people in his community. He definitely wants a 9:00-5:00 job with no overtime hours.

Does a career in HVAC sound right for you?

If so...