If you’re wanting to find a new, successful career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the quickest-growing careers available, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which expects careers in this field will expand by 13 percent by 2028.

There are several reasons why these careers are growing so fast. One is homeowners using government incentives to get more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the end of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which affects old equipment. Finally, there’s the red-hot real estate market and a property shortage that’s driven a bump in new construction houses.

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

What Are HVAC Technicians?

An HVAC technician is an individual who services, installs and maintains heating and cooling systems. Most assist 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 Working in HVAC Difficult?

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

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

One of the most common misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar job. You need a specific skill set, extensive instruction and ongoing endorsements.

It’s a good career possibility if you want to:

  • Not have heavy amounts of educational debt.
  • Avoid working at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security being sure your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Be your own boss and run your own prosperous business.

How to Become an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED, as well as comprehensive training. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically need extra schooling or endorsements.

You can become certified by attending classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician relies on the program, which is often six months to two years. Your employer may also require NATE certification. Known as North American Technician Excellence, this top accreditation improves your technical knowledge to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer reports that technicians familiar with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in big demand as equipment evolves.

Another perk of working in HVAC is little to no instructional debt.

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

The Average Career of an HVAC Technician

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

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

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

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

Since HVAC is a fast-growing field, your salary will reflect it. The national average salary for an HVAC technician is $49,242, according to ZipRecruiter. Top earners receive between $56,600 and $68,000. However, salaries may be different based on your area and its cost of living.

In addition to owning your own business, there are a wide range of additional career opportunities. These can be:

HVAC manager, $72,515 average salary

HVAC service manager, $71,176 average salary

Where the Demand for HVAC Technicians Is Highest

HVAC technicians are in demand across the United States, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the greatest number of HVAC workers and are dealing with explosive construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, education and healthcare locations.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility upgrades.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure projects.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure upgrades.
  • 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, anticipates these states to have the biggest 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 greatest number of new jobs during that time frame are forecasted 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 growth is expected to fuel increases in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Launch a Career in HVAC with AW Heating & Air Conditioning

HVAC technicians are required across the nation and in Lincoln. To discover more about our openings, view our careers page or contact us at 402-438-7992 right away!