As long as people want to be cool and comfortable, they are going to need HVAC techs. It’s a growing industry and it’s growing all over the country.
- Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projection program.
By the Numbers
The US Department of Labor projects that the HVAC field will grow 34% from 2010-2020. That massive rate of growth equals a massive need for HVAC technicians. And the techs that are hired won’t have to worry about watching their job get outsourced overseas.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lumps all heating, air conditioning and refrigeration installers and technicians together. As a group, the mean yearly wage is $46,880. That is more than many teachers who must have a 4 year degree.
Recognizing the Need
This unmet need hasn’t been lost on the likes of people like Mike Rowe of “Dirty Jobs” fame. Rowe has been an unabashed supporter of the trades. When he testified before the US Senate Commerce Committee in May of 2011 he shocked the members with statements such a “In Alabama, a third of all skilled tradesmen are over 55. They’re retiring fast, and no one is there to replace them.”
Mike Rowe host and apprentice of Dirty Jobs introduces hardworking people who overcome fear, danger and sometimes stench and overall discomfort to accomplish their daily tasks
“In Alabama, a third of all skilled tradesmen are over 55.
They’re retiring fast, and no one is there to replace them.”
Here’s what Mike Rowe had to say,
The mikeroweWorks Foundation has distributed $2.5 million in scholarship funds to support skilled trades training and the website maintains a list of companies that are currently hiring skilled tradesmen.
What it Takes to Succeed
If you know someone that is looking for a career or if you are thinking of switching careers, consider the HVAC field. Your local community college or technical school can help you with training for Tube cleaning, Coil cleaning and a complete HVAC system maintenance. In addition, there are a few things that all good HVAC technicians have in common:
1 Ability to work well with customers – As an HVAC technician, you will deal directly with a homeowner, facility manger, or property manager. Good people skills are crucial.
2 Ability to manage your time – A busy tech makes several calls a day. Keeping focused and budgeting your time well will keep you on track.
3 Ability to solve problems – In addition to mechanical skills, you need to be able to troubleshoot and solve problems. The first part of any repair is diagnosis.
4 Ability to take tests – Every state requires some sort of license or certification in order to work as an HVAC tech. To get that license or certification you must pass a written test. Many states also require continuing education to maintain your license.
The HVAC field is challenging, rewarding, and a great place to make your mark.
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