HVAC training is a crucial way to start out in the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Working on these systems is a skill that must be learned, but once you do, you’ll find yourself in demand. Learning through a trade program is a great start, but it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Find out how long it takes to get through HVAC training, the options you have for programs, all about certification, and what kinds of jobs you can expect to get with your diploma. Learning a trade means having new career options that will always be in demand. HVAC technicians are always needed, and in fact the number of jobs in this field is expected to keep growing over the next several years. To become a technician requires some type of HVAC training. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and technicians who can work on these systems are skilled workers. They install, make repairs, do electrical wiring, perform routine maintenance, replace parts, and connect HVAC systems to other components. This kind of work is done in all buildings that have HVAC from the largest commercial high rises and warehouses to a typical residential home or tiny apartment. As HVAC systems evolve and technology changes, skilled, well-trained HVAC technicians are needed more than ever. If you’re thinking about getting into this field, here is everything you need to know about HVAC training.   What is HVAC? Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are the systems that keep buildings comfortable and air healthy and free of pollutants. These systems work together to control indoor temperatures, humidity levels, and air quality. In other words, they provide climate control for all kinds of indoor environments. The heating system, typically a furnace, heats air in a building, while an air conditioner cools it. The ventilation system is made up of the ducts that carry the warm or cooled air throughout a building. Both heating and cooling systems often include filters to remove particles from the air and humidifiers or dehumidifiers to control moisture in the air. HVAC training prepares workers to be technicians and to work with these systems. As an HVAC technician you can expect to install systems using blueprints and technical drawings, inspect and perform maintenance existing systems, make repairs and change out parts, install and test controls and thermostats, connect HVAC systems to water lines and air ducts, and make recommendations for energy efficiency.     The Future of HVAC Jobs According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of HVAC is growing faster than average job growth. The predicted growth in the number of jobs is projected to be 14 percent between 2014 and 2014. In 2015 the median salary for an HVAC technician was $45,110 per year, which means there is a potential to earn much more.     HVAC systems are only getting more advanced, technologically, which means that HVAC training is becoming more important than ever. Important trends in HVAC include smart systems and thermostats, with more being connected to the internet, energy efficiency technology, and the use of mobile apps helping technicians to provide better service.   Steps to Becoming an HVAC Technician If a career in HVAC sounds like the right choice for you, it’s important to understand how you get there. There is no single correct path to take, but there are some general steps you will need to work through in order to become a working HVAC technician: Graduate from high school. The first thing you need is a high school diploma or equivalency certificate. This is a requirement for working in this skilled trade and you won’t be accepted into an HVAC program without it.   Find an HVAC training program. If you have that diploma in hand, you’re ready to find your training program. A traditional way to get training is to apprentice with an experienced worker, but more often students are choosing a diploma program. You have a lot of options, but many employers may want to see that you completed HVAC coursework.   Complete an HVAC training program. Whether you choose a hands-on classroom experience or an apprenticeship, your next step will be to complete it. Many HVAC programs take as little as a year or less to finish, so you don’t have to expect to spend years getting an education.    Consider certifications. Not all states require certification or licensing for HVAC technicians, but it is something to consider. There are several options for types of certification, for example Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA certification for handling refrigerants. Decide which certifications you want to pursue and then you will be ready to hunt for your first HVAC job.     What is HVAC Training Like? A smart way to start your HVAC career after high school is to choose an HVAC training program. These are programs that usually result in a certificate or diploma and that prepare you to pass certification exams. Most take less than a year to complete and involve classwork with hands-on training.   You can expect to learn HVAC skills from trained professionals who have worked in the field. They will teach you about safety, using tools, reading blueprints, construction drawings, and other technical drawings, basic math needed to work with HVAC systems, and basics of electricity, heating, and cooling. In HVAC training you will also learn about the fundamentals of HVAC equipment, how they are designed, how they work, and how to install and connect them to other systems. Expect to learn how to troubleshoot problems and make repairs and how to improve the efficiency of different types of HVAC systems. HVAC training programs should provide you all of this education and more by giving you direct instruction combined with hands-on practice. You can expect to be working on sample HVAC systems and using real tools to perform the actual tasks technicians do.   Where Can I Get HVAC Training? While apprenticeship programs may be available to […]

5 Great Certificate Programs to Launch Your New Career If you’ve been dreaming of a new career, you can have it. All it takes is a little of your time to complete one of these certificate programs offered by Florida Technical College. At one of our six Florida campuses, you can spend less time than you thought getting the diploma that will launch your new career. Here are just five of the great programs that could have you in a new position by this time next year.   1. Baking and Pastelería Can you imagine yourself working in a kitchen or bakery, crafting the most beautiful and delicious cakes, pastries, and breads? With a diploma in baking and pastelería from FTC, you can realize that dream. Our program will give you the hands-on training you need to thrive in this creative career. Learn how to bake tasty breads and desserts, and how to artfully design and create edible decorations. 2. Cosmetology For another creative career option, consider cosmetology. This is another one of our certificate programs that allows you to learn in a hands-on setting, from instructors who have worked in the field for years. Learn how to cut, style, and color hair, learn makeup artistry, and get the practical business skills needed to manage a salon or even start your own beauty salon. 3. Patient Care Technician Working in health care can be so rewarding. For a career that allows you to actively participate in helping patients and making sure they are comfortable, consider studying for a patient care technician diploma. Patient care technicians are on the front lines of health care, assisting nurses and doctors, taking patients vitals, keeping patients safe and clean, and providing comfort and care, and all it takes to get into this career is the completion of an FTC diploma program. 4. Esthetics Imagine working in an upscale salon, using your expertise to help customers look and feel their best. You could be that expert that clients rely on. You just need a diploma in esthetics. Estheticians work in spas and beauty salons providing professional makeup application, facials and full-body skin care, and other beauty services. 5. HVAC/R with PLC Workers skilled and trained in heating and cooling installation and repair are always going to be in demand. Being able to work with complicated residential and commercial HVAC systems requires a certain level of training. Not just anyone can do it, but you can get into this lucrative career by earning a diploma from one of FTC’s certificate programs. Included in the program are hands-on practice and training with programmable logic controllers. These certificate programs and others available at FTC are perfect for anyone who wants a career change without spending years getting a degree. With a year-long program, flexible class schedules, and the possibility of financial aid, not to mention career placement, you can realize your dreams and find a fantastic new career. Contact FTC today to get more information about all of our programs.

5 Signs A Career In HVAC Is A Fantastic Fit For You Did you know that HVAC, or otherwise known as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is one of today’s fastest-growing careers? In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for HVAC professionals is expected to grow by 14% from 2014-24. Offering a favorable employment outlook along with competitive pay, it is no wonder why this career choice is so in-demand. Wondering if a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is the right choice for you? Find out if going back to school and becoming an HVAC Technician is the career for you by checking out these 5 signs below.   1.) You’re someone that tends to be detailed oriented Do you consider yourself to be detail oriented? If so, a career in HVAC might be a fantastic fit. As a technician staying organized is a critical part of the job. For example, many HVAC technicians are in charge of tasks such as diagnosing and fixing repairs along with maintaining accurate records of the jobs performed. An attention to detail can help you perform these tasks with ease.   2.) You’re seeking a career that offers job stability One of the greatest advantages of pursuing a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is that you’ll be able to break into a career that offers stability. With HVAC systems being an integral part of nearly any property, there is ample need for individuals who are able to provide the necessary maintenance for this equipment.   3.) You prefer hands-on tasks Does the idea of sitting at a desk all day sound like a nightmare? Do you prefer to be up on your feet and active in your work? If so, HVAC might just be the ideal career for you. Often tasked with lifting parts, equipment, and other objects, technicians perform a variety of hands-on tasks during their work. Whether it be installing new equipment or performing repairs, technicians are able to enjoy an active career.   4.) You are comfortable troubleshooting If you’re someone that has little trouble getting to the bottom of something, you may find a career in HVAC to be your calling. After all, diagnosing, troubleshooting and repairing are a big part of your job as a technician. In fact, technicians will often receive notices about a system before they even have a chance to diagnose the problem, making effective problem solving key.   5.) You’re searching for a career you can grow in Whether you would like to work in refrigeration, heating or air, or even ventilation, there’s a diverse range of career opportunities to explore with a background in HVAC. Work independently or as part of a team, the great aspect to pursuing a career in HVAC is that you’ll have plenty of options to explore. In fact, if you’re looking for a career you can truly grow in, you may find that HVAC is exactly what you’re searching for. Interested in learning more about a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning? If so, we encourage you here at Florida Technical College to see first-hand if going back to school for HVAC Training is right for you. Explore our campus, meet our professors, and experience first-hand what it is like to be a student at FTC. Don’t delay, schedule your non-obligation campus tour today by calling your nearest FTC campus location.   Call Central Florida Campus: (847) 402 – 3337 Call South Florida Campus: (844) 332 – 3409     RELATED ARTICLES : 5 Important Safety Tips Every HVAC Technician Should Be Aware Of Why Demand for HVAC Technicians is Growing

5 Important Safety Tips Every HVAC Technician Should Be Aware Of Working as an HVAC technician in the field of heating, cooling, and air can be a rewarding career choice. The opportunity to actively problem solve while enjoying a stable salary, the field of HVAC certainly has its advantages. However, while working in heating, cooling and air offers numerous benefits, that doesn’t mean there are not precautions as well. After all, HVAC technicians are exposed to a unique set of hazards while on the job. Which means safety is huge in this profession. And whether you’ve been working in this field for a few months or a few years, you will want to know these 5 important safety tips.   1.) Make Protection a Priority The most effective way to stay safe while on the job? Make protection a priority. Anytime you are being exposed to contaminants such as dust or other debris, you will need protective equipment like a respirator to avoid inhaling these harmful substances. In addition, you’ll also want to make sure to wear goggles or some type of face shield to keep your eyes safe from harmful exposure. Gloves should also be worn when handling particles and anything that has the potential to cut you. Remember, safety starts with protection first   2.) Assess the Situation at Hand In addition to using protective equipment to ensure your safety, you will also want to assess the situation at hand. Before jumping into a task, take the time to identify any potential hazards that may be present on the job site. Each job is a unique situation and location, so it’s wise to take the necessary safety precautions beforehand. While it can be tempting to immediately start on a job, it’s better to take the time to get the job done and do it right than to just rush through everything.   3.) Double-Check Your Equipment Moving from one job site to the next is a common scenario for many HVAC technicians. So having the right tools for the job is crucial when it comes to heating and air. Before starting a job, assess the required tools you will need in order to complete the job. Whether a wrench, wire strippers, or even a vacuum gauge it’s important to always double-check your equipment. Keeping everything in order is important for completing the task at hand while also keeping you safe in the process. Using faulty equipment is more likely to lead to injury so performing routine maintenance is key.   4.) Don’t Take Shortcuts In addition to double-checking your equipment, you will also want to make sure you’re not taking any shortcuts. As an HVAC technician, you’re working with chemicals, electricity and in some cases extreme temperatures on a regular basis. And while taking a shortcut might save you a few seconds, exercising caution should be your number one priority. In order to truly be safe on the job, technicians must follow procedure.   5.) Exercise Caution Around Chemicals While HVAC technicians face a number of potential hazards while on the job, caution must especially be adhered to when it comes to chemicals. With the potential to cause bodily harm, chemicals need to be stored and handled properly in order to prevent serious damage. Keep chemicals in original containers and never mix substances, even if they appear to be similar. In addition, store chemicals in well-ventilated areas away from vents to prevent fumes from spreading. And always follow signage and instruction to avoid harm not only to yourself but to those around you as well.  Interested in potentially launching a new career in heating, cooling, and air conditioning? Call FTC Now To Learn More About HVAC Technician Training   RELATED ARTICLES : A Brief Unofficial History of HVAC A Career In HVAC Is a Fantastic Fit For You