Why HVAC May Be a Key Trade Skill to Have in the Workforce

There are plenty of fast-growing and rewarding industries out there to consider when you're thinking about starting a new career. From health care to information technology to auto repair, these can all make great choices for pursuing a new path.

If none of those sound like the right fit, you might look into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology. Because, after all, every health care facility, tech company, and auto repair shop relies on HVAC to function.

In fact, nearly all residential and business spaces need HVAC systems to keep residents, employees, and customers safe and comfortable.

HVAC is an essential trade to a wide range of industries. But what does that mean for available jobs? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HVAC jobs are expected to grow at a rate of about 4% between 2019 and 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

As current HVAC techs retire, skilled workers will be needed to replace them. Plus, as technologies become more advanced and more complex, they'll require skilled installation technicians and repair specialists to maintain them.

As a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning tech, you will hook up and maintain HVAC systems. You might work in schools, make home repairs, specialize in restaurants, or support other types of businesses. About 7% of technicians working for themselves.

Some techs specialize in installation or in troubleshooting malfunctioning systems and making repairs. Others may pursue training that includes refrigeration systems (often called HVAC-R).

Most HVAC jobs are full-time, earning a median annual salary of more than $50,000 in 2020 (or hourly wages of more than $24). That can vary according to the specific work you're doing and, of course, where you're doing it.

If you love working with your hands, have mechanical skills, and think HVAC would be a cool career, we want to do whatever we can to help you succeed!

One of the best ways to begin is with a hands-on career training program. Career and technical education can be completed in as little as six months to prepare you for entry-level employment opportunities. Be sure to check out our robust database of schools to find HVAC programs in your area!

If you are already in an HVAC program, you’ll still want to stay up-to-date with all our student resources. That includes financial aid tips, student housing recommendations, and a rich blog. And don't forget to register with the Imagine America Foundation to apply for our scholarship programs!

These tools can help you figure out ways to juggle your training and personal responsibilities, making sure you stay motivated to meet your goal—and that you create success in the classroom and beyond.