Tulsa's climate makes HVAC an essential trade — scorching Oklahoma summers and icy winters keep heating and cooling systems working hard year-round, in homes, offices, and the industrial facilities that anchor the city's economy.
The metro's commercial base adds another layer of demand. Aerospace facilities like American Airlines Tech Ops–Tulsa, food processing operations, data facilities, and manufacturing plants all rely on climate control and commercial refrigeration systems that need skilled technicians.
Oklahoma's HVAC/R workforce is projected to keep growing through 2032, making now a practical time to enter the trade with formal training.
Imagine America has partnered with Tulsa Welding School (TWS) at its flagship Tulsa campus — training skilled tradespeople since 1949. The Refrigeration Technologies program extends TWS's hands-on training approach to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, preparing students for HVAC/R careers in as little as seven months.
About Imagine America Foundation (IAF)
The Imagine America Foundation (IAF) is a nonprofit organization supporting students pursuing career-oriented education at recognized trade schools and career colleges across the U.S. Since 1982, the Foundation has helped students navigate the financial aspects of technical and vocational training.
IAF provides scholarship programs including the Imagine America High School Scholarship for graduating seniors, the Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP) for adult learners, and the Military Award Program (MAP) for veterans. The Foundation also offers financial literacy guidance, career exploration tools, and resources for choosing the right program.
Over $10 million in tuition assistance is provided annually to students attending career and technical colleges nationwide.
Start Your HVAC Technology Career with Tulsa Welding School
The Refrigeration Technologies program at TWS Tulsa covers residential and commercial HVAC/R systems across seven courses and 700 contact hours. Students train in a hybrid format — theory online, hands-on labs on campus — and can earn key EPA certifications before graduation.
- 7-month program — start your HVAC career in under a year
- EPA Section 608 certification prep built into the curriculum
- EPA Section 609 and R-410A safety certifications earned during commercial coursework
- Residential and commercial systems including walk-in refrigeration and chillers
What You'll Learn
Coursework moves from electrical fundamentals and the refrigeration cycle through residential comfort systems, commercial comfort systems, refrigeration systems including walk-in coolers and freezers, chillers, and advanced troubleshooting. Students also practice brazing with oxy-acetylene equipment and train on E-STAR troubleshooting simulators.
Certifications You Can Earn
Students qualify for EPA Section 608 certification during the advanced troubleshooting course, and can earn EPA Section 609 (mobile air conditioning) and R-410A safety certifications in the commercial comfort systems course — credentials employers expect from day one.
Hands-On, Hybrid Format
Theory is delivered online while lab skills are built on campus, letting students practice diagnostics, refrigerant handling, and system repair on real equipment. Morning, afternoon, and evening weekday schedules accommodate working students.
Career Outlook in Oklahoma
Oklahoma HVAC/R mechanic employment is projected to grow through 2032. Graduates can pursue roles as residential HVAC technicians, commercial refrigeration techs, and maintenance technicians, with advancement paths toward service management and contractor licensing.
Training Services
- Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC
- Refrigeration Cycle & System Theory
- Residential Comfort Systems
- Commercial Comfort Systems
- Walk-In Refrigeration & Freezer Systems
- Chiller Systems
- Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
- Brazing with Oxy-Acetylene
Take the First Step Toward Your Career Today
A strong foundation from the right training program sets the stage for a successful career. Explore training programs, meet expert instructors, and discover how quality education can lead to a rewarding future.
Start Your HVAC Career TodayFrequently Asked Questions
How long is the HVAC program at TWS Tulsa?
The Refrigeration Technologies program can be completed in as little as seven months, with morning, afternoon, and evening weekday schedules.
What certifications will I earn in the program?
Students qualify for EPA Section 608 certification and can earn EPA Section 609 and R-410A safety certifications during coursework — the core credentials required for handling refrigerants professionally.
Does the program cover commercial refrigeration?
Yes. Beyond residential heating and cooling, students train on commercial comfort systems, walk-in coolers and freezers, and chillers — skills that open doors in supermarkets, restaurants, and industrial facilities.
Are scholarships available for TWS Tulsa HVAC students?
Yes. Imagine America Foundation scholarships are available to qualifying high school seniors, adult learners, and military members attending Tulsa Welding School. Create a free profile to see what you qualify for.
