Careers in HVAC
A positive and lucrative future career doesn’t always mean you need to have a four-year degree. No matter your age, a career in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) industry can bring you challenges and rewards. There are many different aspects and jobs when it comes to heating and cooling. Some of these jobs are for both commercial and residential customers working as a service technician, an installer, project manager, sheet metal worker, estimating, or even in the front office. Demand for HVAC services and products continues to grow yearly and will continue to do so for the coming years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that by 2026 the field is projected to grow 15%. HVAC service and install techs will be busier than ever before and remain in high demand throughout the next decade and beyond.
If you’re interested in a job in the HVAC industry start by assessing your skill level and deciding what you would like to specialize in. Installers are the team that work either on new construction or replacement jobs. They are responsible for taking out old equipment and putting in the new equipment, or in a new construction space installing the new design build equipment. Service technicians are the team that help to repair or maintain your current heating and cooling system. If you have working equipment they go out on calls for no heat, no cooling, or bi-annual maintenance checks. They work to keep your installed equipment, whether it be residential or commercial, running.
To work in the HVAC industry, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, you can go above and receive HVAC certification from a local trade school or college program. If you are looking to break into the industry without specific schooling, you may want to start by applying for a position in the back shop or as a driver. This way you can start to know the industry and how it operates while also being able to see the different positions available. You will encounter different heating and cooling systems and problems which will help make you more comfortable