Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

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Career Information

Employment opportunities
Besides work in service and repair shops, HVAC technicians often work for cooling and heating contractors, local and federal governments, and heating and air-conditioning system distributors. Positions exist in a variety of locales, including schools, hospitals, fuel oil dealerships, and office buildings. Those who enjoy working with people move into areas such as sales or marketing. A small percentage of HVAC mechanics and installers are self-employed.

Job outlook
Jobs for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are expected to increase 21 to 35 percent through the year 2012. Although some specialized installation technicians may experience periods of unemployment when new construction levels decline, maintenance and repair work usually remains relatively stable, since businesses and homes depend on their climate control systems and must keep them in good working order.

Earning potential
HVAC mechanics and installers earned a median hourly wage of $17.43 in 2004, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In Illinois, the median wage for heating and cooling system mechanics was $19.28 per hour in 2005.

Career advancement
Advancement in this field usually takes the form of higher wages. With experience, however, you could advance to supervisor or service manager.

Career choices with your degree:
• Furnace installer
• Air conditioning mechanic
• Heating/cooling repair man

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
• Service manager
• Supervisor
• HVAC salesman
* Self-employed technician