Career Spotlight: HVAC Technicians

Do you like to be on the move? 
Do you like to work with your hands? 
Do you want to have a well-paying job, but aren't interested in attending too many years of college?

Have you ever considered a career in Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)?! 

Check out the information below taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

• What do HVAC technicians do, exactly? 

They work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings.

• What is the work environment like?

HVAC technicians work in residential homes, schools, hospitals, office buildings, or factories. Their worksites may be very hot or cold because the heating and cooling systems they must repair may not be working, and because some parts of these systems are located outdoors. Irregular hours and working in cramped spaces are common.

• What can I expect for a salary as an HVAC technician? 

The median annual wage for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers was $43,640 in May 2012.

• What is the job outlook?

Employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow 21 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Candidates familiar with computers and electronics and those with good troubleshooting skills will have the best job opportunities as employers continue to have difficulty finding qualified technicians to 

work on complex new systems.

• How do I become an HVAC technician? 

There are several technical colleges nearby that offer this quick program. Iowa Lakes Community College's HVAC program is based on their Estherville campus. 

Students interested in hearing more about this career should contact me with their interest regarding upcoming events focused on HVAC programming.