If you’ve decided to pursue a career in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) but currently lack experience, that’s perfectly okay. The journey into the HVAC field varies significantly from person to person, influenced by individual circumstances, education, and training opportunities. The crucial first step is making the conscious decision to embark on this path, acknowledging your interest in the intricate systems that regulate indoor climate and air quality.
Exploring educational programs can provide foundational knowledge and hands-on training, often culminating in certifications that enhance your employability. Additionally, seeking hands-on learning opportunities can offer valuable real-world experience, allowing you to work alongside seasoned professionals who can mentor you. Remember, every expert started where you are now, and with dedication and the right resources, you can build a successful career in HVAC.
Recommend Steps to Get into HVAC With No Experience
To begin with, consider enrolling in an HVAC training program or technical school, such as Brownson Technical School (BTS). These programs can help you gain foundational knowledge about systems, tools, and installation techniques. Many programs also offer hands-on training, which is invaluable for building practical skills.
You might also want to seek apprenticeships or entry-level positions with established HVAC companies. These opportunities can provide on-the-job training and mentorship from seasoned professionals, allowing you to learn the ropes while actively working in the field.
Networking within the industry—whether through local trade associations or online platforms—can also help you connect with potential mentors and job opportunities. Remember, persistence is key no matter what career path you explore within the HVAC industry. By taking these steps, you are setting yourself up for success in the HVAC industry, even if you start with no experience.
Educational and Training Programs for Individuals Looking to Get into HVAC with No Experience
As mentioned above, a training or educational program, such as the one through BTS, can be an excellent way for individuals with no experience to begin a career path in HVAC. BTS offers students a ten-month[1] HVAC Technician program that provides the skills needed to thrive within the HVAC industry.
Their program has been around for over forty years and has a comprehensive curriculum to ensure students have a well-rounded and dynamic educational experience. BTS is the only school that offers formal training in Direct Digital Controls (DDC) and Building Automation, among some of the fastest-growing components of the HVAC/R industry. Additionally, students will get 1,040 hours of extensive training, significantly higher than other schools, offering around 750 hours. The program can also prepare students to obtain their EPA/Section 608 certification.
As a result of attending BTS’s program, as of 2021, eighty-seven percent[2] of their graduates found employment within the HVAC industry within one year of graduation.
Skills of an HVAC Technician
As HVAC technicians, individuals may possess a diverse range of skills that are essential for thriving in this dynamic industry. Some of these skills include:
- Ability to Read Blueprints: HVAC technicians who understand how to read blueprints can better understand design specifications and the nuances of a system layout. This can also help reduce the need for repair and/or maintenance after installation.
- Effective Communication: As an HVAC technician, you will work with other team members, supervisors, and clients. It’s essential that, as an HVAC technician, you can articulate what is taking place in an easily understandable format.
- Troubleshooting Skills: In the field, an HVAC technician may encounter a system with a non-straightforward problem. In this case, you will have to work through the issue to restore the system to good working order.
- Time Management: As an HVAC technician, you must balance your workload on a given day to ensure you can keep all your scheduled appointments. By effectively managing time and schedules, you will be able to complete the work in a timely and efficient manner.
- Mechanical Skills: In the HVAC field, you may encounter work that requires you to install or repair mechanical systems in air conditioning units, heating devices, or refrigerators. A comprehensive understanding of how the system works will allow you to take the system apart and put it back together efficiently.
- Attention to Detail: An HVAC technician can pay close attention to the small elements within a larger system. This can assist you in maintaining a system working correctly and allow you to meticulously document the detailed work you complete.
While this is not an exhaustive list of skills and competencies that an HVAC technician may possess, it highlights several key attributes that many professionals in the industry often hold to thrive.
Career Outlook for Individuals in HVAC
As you embark on a career as an HVAC technician, evaluating the career outlook within this field is imperative to make informed decisions about your future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this sector is projected to grow by nine percent[3] from 2023 to 2033, reflecting a steady demand for skilled technicians nationwide. As of 2023, the median annual salary for individuals in the HVAC field was approximately $57,300[3], indicating competitive earnings potential for those entering the profession.
In California, the Employment Development Department forecasts a significantly higher growth rate of 13.8 percent[4] for HVAC roles from 2020 to 2030. This increase is largely attributed to the state’s ongoing construction projects, which continue to drive the demand for HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair services. With these promising statistics, pursuing an HVAC career not only offers job stability but also presents opportunities for advancement and specialization.
Start a Career in HVAC Today with No Experience Necessary
Embarking on a career within the HVAC industry is an excellent choice for those seeking a fulfilling professional career path.
To navigate this dynamic landscape, aspiring technicians can benefit significantly from various educational and training programs. For example, Brownson Technical School provides an HVAC technician program that is meticulously designed to empower students with the skills and expertise needed to excel. The curriculum blends rigorous hands-on training and theoretical knowledge.
Whether your ambition is to join a reputable HVAC company or launch your own entrepreneurial venture, pursuing a specialized education in HVAC can lay a strong foundation for a successful and impactful career.
Additional Information/Sources
[1]Program length when completed in normal time.
[2]https://brownson.edu/hvac-air-conditioning-refrigeration-school-orange-county/
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/hvac-skills