If you’re thinking about a new, high-paying career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the most rapidly growing careers you can find, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which estimates careers in this trade will grow by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these positions are increasing so fast. One is homeowners taking advantage of government refunds to purchase more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the discontinuation of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which impacts old equipment. Lastly, there’s the red-hot home market and a property shortage that’s driven a boost in new construction homes.

One of the top needed careers is working as an HVAC technician. Discover about what they do, how to become one and about how much you can expect to receive.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

An HVAC technician is a person who repairs, installs and maintains heating and cooling systems. Most work with both homeowners and business owners. And, most important, you’ll be knowledgeable about:

Some are HVAC-R techs, which means they also can take care of refrigeration.

Is a Career in HVAC Difficult?

While HVAC can be physically difficult, it can also be highly satisfying. As a technician you’ll be required to be able to:

  • Work in extreme settings, including crowded or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas as equipment is typically outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak times.

One of the biggest misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar position. It requires a distinct skill set, extensive training and ongoing endorsements.

It’s an excellent career possibility if you want to:

  • Not be saddled with heavy amounts of educational debt.
  • Avoid sitting at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security realizing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Work as your own boss and run your own prosperous business.

How You Can Start Your Careers as an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you will require a high school diploma or GED, in addition to comprehensive training. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC positions typically must have extra schooling or endorsements.

You can be certified by going to classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician is linked to the program, which is typically six months to two years. Your employer could also expect NATE certification. This stands for North American Technician Excellence, this top certification increases your technical expertise to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer noted that technicians familiar with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in great demand as equipment becomes more technologically advanced.

Another benefit of working in HVAC is little to no student debt.

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school typically costs around $15,000. A community college often costs around $5,000 annually. In comparison, the average student debt for a bachelor’s degree is $25,921.

Common Duties of an HVAC Technician

Your work schedule may vary depending on your employer. If you work in repairs, you may work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you might have more of a set schedule during normal business hours.

As a technician, you’ll respond to different locations for repair, maintenance or installation work. Some work might take longer than others, so the number of calls you can go to might vary.

As we mentioned previously, you should be used to working outdoors in extreme weather, plus dirty or cramped spots. If you work in a customer-facing role, solid customer service skills are always an advantage.

Average Salary for {Professional Technicians|Technicians|Full-Time Technicians and Similar HVAC Jobs

Since HVAC is a quickly growing career, your salary will show it. The national average salary for an HVAC technician is $49,242, according to ZipRecruiter. Top earners make between $56,600 and $68,000. However, salaries might differ based on your location and its cost of living.

Other than running your own business, there are a few additional career opportunities. These can be:

HVAC manager, $72,515 average salary

HVAC service manager, $71,176 average salary

Where HVAC Technicians Are Needed the Most

HVAC technicians are needed across the nation, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the most HVAC workers and are experiencing major construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, education and healthcare buildings.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility updates.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure projects.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure projects.
  • Illinois: Companies moving to the Chicago area.

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who develops long-term occupational projections, forecasts these states to have the greatest demand for technicians by 2028:

  1. Utah, 31.1%
  2. Colorado, 29.7%
  3. Nevada, 27.9%
  4. Arizona, 21.4%
  5. Iowa, Oregon and Montana, 18.5%
  6. Arkansas, 16.3%
  7. Florida, 16.2%
  8. South Carolina, 16%
  9. Texas, 15.9%
  10. Idaho, 15.7%
  11. Washington, 15.6%
  12. North Carolina, 15.5%
  13. Tennessee, 15.2%
  14. Wyoming, 14.3%
  15. Nebraska, 13.9%
  16. Indiana, 13.8%
  17. North Dakota, 13.8%

Here’s where the biggest number of new jobs during that time frame are expected to be:

  1. Florida, 5,420
  2. Texas, 5,530
  3. California, 4,100
  4. North Carolina, 2,510
  5. New York, 2,290
  6. Colorado, 2,000
  7. Ohio, 1,550
  8. Pennsylvania, 1,510
  9. Virginia, 1,500
  10. Tennessee, 1,360
  11. Washington, 1,290
  12. Georgia, 1,270
  13. New Jersey, 1,170
  14. Utah, 1,170
  15. South Carolina, 1,1060
  16. Indiana, 940
  17. Maryland, 820
  18. Missouri and Arizona, 810
  19. Michigan, 780

Weather and economic improvement is forecasted to contribute to expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Kickstart Your HVAC Career with Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc

HVAC technicians remain in demand across the USA and in Wisconsin Rapids. To learn more more about our openings, see our careers page or reach us at 715-301-0256 now!