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HVAC Training: Finding an HVAC School
HVAC Training: Finding an HVAC School
Are you considering heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) training for your post-secondary education? If so, there are some important factors you should first consider to make sure you choose the HVAC school that best matches your career goals.
Identify the Right HVAC Program
Before you choose a school, it's a good idea to research the types of HVAC programs that are available. Some of the options to consider are:
- Type of program - HVAC certificate and diploma programs tend to be short-term and focus on the hands-on skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment upon graduation. HVAC degree programs tend to take more time to complete, but are more advanced, generally including both hands-on and theoretical content, as well as general education course options.
- Length of program - HVAC programs can vary in length from less than a year for a certificate program to four years for a degree.
- Prerequisites - Some HVAC programs may have prerequisites, such as a high school diploma. It is important to find out if you meet the program qualifications before applying.
Look into HVAC Certification Requirements
Many HVAC employers require employees to have industry certification, and in some states, certification may be a legal requirement. Therefore, it is extremely important to find out if your state requires certification, and if so, you will need to know if the schools and programs you are considering can qualify or prepare you to successfully take the necessary examinations.
Here are some of the most common industry associations that regulate certification:
Look into Opportunities for Real-Life HVAC Experience
While the solid base of hands-on training and theoretical knowledge that an HVAC program can provide are extremely helpful, many employers also place a high priority on real-life experience. Therefore, many HVAC training schools include an externship as part of their curriculum. An externship is usually completed as the last portion of an HVAC program, and allows you to be placed within an off-site setting, working with an actual HVAC company. While most externships are unpaid, they are incredibly valuable, as they give you the opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge within an HVAC business, while working with actual clients and HVAC professionals.
However, if your program does not include an externship, another option that is available to you is to pursue an apprenticeship with a certified HVAC professional, company, or organization. It may be helpful to search for HVAC organizations within your state or region, and use them as a resource to get in contact with potential apprenticeship sources.
Utilize HVAC Career Assistance Programs
Another vital consideration in your search for an HVAC training school is to find out if career assistance is offered. Many HVAC schools have a career services department, which can help you find a part-time job while you are attending school, and also aid you in finding a career within your field upon graduation. Some common forms of career assistance include help with resume writing, networking, and job searching. Many HVAC schools will also host on-site career fairs, or maintain job listing resources that are solely intended for their students and alumni.
In addition, many career services departments can also help you discover externship or apprenticeship opportunities, and assist you with the logistics and organization involved in creating a contract that is beneficial to everyone involved.
Now that you have considered some of the most important factors in choosing an HVAC school, your next step is to request more information from the HVAC schools you are considering. This available directory of HVAC schools and programs is a great place to start your research!
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