Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC – R)

Demand for HVAC-R installers and technicians is growing and it’s a great career field to consider if you want flexibility, a high wage, and the opportunity to learn a skilled trade in a short time. In as little as five months, students in EA’s certificate programs develop the skills necessary to install, service, and repair HVAC-R systems through hands-on learning experiences. Students learn code requirements, electrical applications, proper refrigerant-handling procedures, system design, HVAC-R component operation, and the soft skills employers are looking for in their workforce. You can seek employment with a vast array of businesses and organizations, such as hospitals, retail stores, school districts, construction companies, and more — or work for yourself. The advanced certificate includes the necessary instrumentation training to work in commercial refrigeration and heating. Both certificates prepare you to sit for the Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Service Company Section 608 certifications and include an EPA certification course to provide insight on what to expect on the exam.

HVAC-R Career Paths
  • HVAC-R Project Manager
  • Residential Contractor
  • Commercial Contractor
  • Facilities Maintenance Technician
HVAC-R
Select Average Salary Statistics*
*2021 national median pay, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$53,000
HVAC-R Installer/Technician — Building Equipment Contractors
$55,000
HVAC-R Installer/Technician — Director Selling Establishments
$58,000
HVAC-R Installer/Technician — Merchant Wholesalers
$58,000
HVAC-R Repair & Maintenance — Industrial Machinery and Equipment

Program Details

Average Program Length
Location(s)
HVAC-R Certificate
Preparation to sit for the EPA and ESCO Section 608 certifications and for entry-level employment in the heating and refrigeration industry.
1 full-time semester
Thatcher
Advanced HVAC-R Certificate
Preparation to sit for the EPA and ESCO Section 608 certifications and for entry-level employment in the commercial heating and refrigeration industry.
1 full-time semester
Thatcher
HVAC-R Technologies Associate of Applied Science Degree
Preparation to repair, install, service, and maintain operation of HVAC-R systems
4 full-time semesters
Thatcher