Air Conditioning Technology

What is Air Conditioning Technology?

The development of new green energy-saving heating and air-conditioning systems has led to the inclusion of these integral elements in our program. Trained HVAC technicians will find ample job opportunities in the fields of service and repair; equipment design; and manufacturing, sales, or system design. Because of the increasing sophistication of heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems, employers prefer to hire those who have completed technical school training or a formal apprenticeship. According to the website, salary.com, the mean salary for a Journeyman Mechanic in Western Kentucky is $34,420. 

What are my career options?

Heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers held about 231,000 jobs in 2011; the majority worked for plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors. The rest were employed in a variety of industries throughout the country, reflecting a widespread dependence on climate-control systems. Some worked for fuel oil dealers, refrigeration and air-conditioning service and repair shops, schools, and stores that sell heating and air-conditioning systems. Local governments, the Federal Government, hospitals, office buildings, and other organizations that operate large air-conditioning, refrigeration, or heating systems also employed these workers. Many graduates of this program will choose to start their own business and become self-employed.

What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?

Degree

Students can earn the Associate in Applied Science in General Occupational/Technical Studies. This degree provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. Credit earned through certificate and diploma program completion is applicable toward the Associate in Applied Science in General Occupational/Technical Studies degree when consistent with the objectives of the students individual plan of study.

Diploma

• Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Certificates

• Boiler Maintenance
• Chiller Maintenance
• Domestic Air Conditioner and Furnace Installer
• Environmental Control System Servicer
• Environmental System Repair Helper
• Refrigeration Mechanic

Industry Credentials

• NCCER Credentials
• Core Curriculum
• Level I

Length of Program

Students seeking a diploma can complete their plan of study in three semesters by completing a total of 60-67 credit hours of technical and general education courses. Certificates embedded within the diploma may be awarded as credential requirements are met. Classes are offered during two 16 week semesters (August-December and January- May) each academic year at the Skilled Craft Training Center, located at 70 Hickory Road, Hickory, KY 42051. Dual credit courses are accepted from local high school districts and allow the student to enter in their second semester of the program.

Admission Requirements

There are no special admission requirements for this program. Please consult WKCTC's general admission requirements.

Industry-Related Associations

• Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute
• Air-Conditioning Contractors of America
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Field Licensure Requirements

Kentucky requires licensure from the Department of Housing, Building & Construction to become a Journeyman HVAC Mechanic. The program prepares you for work in the field as well as gives you work credit towards licensure, but the licensure is not a requirement for graduation from the program.

Accreditation

National Center for Construction Education and Research
13614 Progress Boulevard
Alachua, FL 32615
Main: 386.518.6500 Toll-free: 888.622.3720

This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.

Financial Resources

How to Apply for Scholarships

How to Pay for College