Sometimes referred to as climate control, those who perform maintenance and repair on heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) are in for hot job prospects and cool wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of HVAC mechanics and installers is projected to increase faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014.

And, those who become HVAC mechanics can reap the financial rewards -- the top 10 percent earned more than $27.11 per hour. Add to that good benefits (about 16 percent of heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are members of a union) and opportunities for overtime work, and it's no wonder that the HVAC track is a popular choice at nationwide trade schools.

What is a Typical

HVAC

Job Like?
Being an HVAC mechanic is a lot more complicated than turning up the heat. Large buildings, such as hospitals, schools, office buildings, retail stores, and apartment buildings have very complicated climate systems in place that can only be cared for by highly skilled and trained professionals. In fact, after completing HVAC programs at trade schools, you can usually choose a job that focuses on either installation or maintenance and repair. Furthermore, some HVAC mechanics can also hone in on an expertise in hydronics (water-based heating systems), solar panels, or commercial refrigeration, according to the BLS.

HVAC mechanics and installers must be skilled in using precision and high-powered tools like metal snips, electric drills, pipe cutters and benders, measurement gauges, not to mention some dangerous ones like acetylene torches, which assist in the repair of refrigerant lines and air ducts. During training at trade schools, you'll also get familiar with reading things like voltmeters, pressure gauges, manometers, and other testing devices that monitor airflow, refrigerant pressure, electrical circuits, burners, and other components, says the BLS.

Depending on the position, HVAC mechanics may work in one building, or travel daily to work on various repair jobs. Often, long, weekend, and evening hours may be required for maintenance jobs and emergency repairs, but such occurrences mean overtime pay and night differential.

Learning the HVAC Ropes at Trade Schools
While HVAC mechanics of years past might have learned on the job, with the increase in today's climate control technology, most employers expect you to have completing HVAC training via trade schools or community colleges. Programs usually last anywhere from six months to two years, and sometimes conclude with hands-on field experience. It's also smart to earn certification within the field as it will set you apart from others seeking HVAC jobs. Look for trade schools that are accredited by HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation (PHARA).

There's plenty to learn at HVAC trade schools. Says the BLS, students study theory, design, equipment construction, electronics, as well as the basics of installation, maintenance, and repair. Once you've completed training at an accredited technical school and/or go through an apprenticeship, job prospects are good.

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