Residential HVAC technicians specialize in the installation, repair and maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in people’s homes. If you are considering a career as an HVAC technician you’ll be happy to know there is currently no shortage of demand for skilled tradespeople in this growing field.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job growth outlook for careers in HVAC from 2016-2026 is 15%, which is much faster than the 7% average growth rate for all occupations.
There are a variety of training options available to those interested in pursuing a career as an HVAC technician, including vocational schools, apprenticeships and online technical training programs. Each of these HVAC training programs will teach the basic knowledge and skills you need to do the job. It’s up to you to choose the educational path that’s right for you.
Traditional HVAC Programs Focus on Technical Skills
For a long time, trade schools were on the decline as the United States culture valued and emphasized four year university programs. There may be a changing of the tide as the media and academic institutions are recognizing that careers in the trades pay well and are in demand.
Vocational schools provide the technical skills necessary to perform the tasks of a specific job, such as that of an HVAC technician. Students who choose to pursue HVAC technician training through a trade school will spend time learning theory and obtaining hands-on experience in a classroom setting with a strict schedule. Depending on the school, an HVAC training program can be completed in a couple of months or more than a year to earn a certificate.
Apprenticeships are an arrangement in which an apprentice learns a trade by training under another skilled professional. Typically, an apprenticeship is a paid HVAC training program that can last between four to five years. Apprenticeships give aspiring HVAC technicians the opportunity to learn and hone their skills in the field, while earning money.
Online Learning Offers Flexibility
A third option is quickly becoming a game-changer in the industry. Online technical training offers flexible, engaging training, tailored to specific skill sets that costs less than trade school and takes less time to complete than an apprenticeship. Online learning works well for students that can work independently, are organized with their time, have a good reading comprehension and are computer-savvy.
NexTech Academy offers flexible online learning that is not available through traditional vocational schools combined with hands-on skills assessments that students can complete at their own pace. Students work under the guidance of a local training leader to ensure mastery of necessary HVAC skills.
HVAC online training gives students with no prior experience in the trade an alternative to traditional vocational training options. Students will acquire a working knowledge of tools, technical drawings blueprints and materials. The course also includes furnace and A/C system maintenance, troubleshooting and installation.
Unlike traditional HVAC programs, our focused sales and service training program teaches soft skills that build confidence. Students get valuable real-world, hands-on experience while shadowing industry pros as they work with customers in the field. Participants can complete HVAC training through NexTech Academy in about 18-24 months, compared to four to five years under most apprenticeship models. Download the NexTech Academy Curriculum Guide to explore our holistic approach to learning and see the detailed HVAC course curriculum.
If becoming a residential HVAC technician is your goal, NexTech Academy provides the online technical training, hands-on skills assessments and sales and service skills you need to begin a rewarding career.
Learn more about the HVAC technician training program through NexTech Academy.
