For a variety of reasons, not every talented high school student has the opportunity or desire to go to college. In this country, attending college has become a cultural expectation, and it’s often assumed that young people can’t achieve career success without it.
The facts prove otherwise. College is not a necessary prerequisite for every lucrative and rewarding career. That’s especially true for technical careers such as HVAC and Refrigeration service, where on-the-job training is the most common path to success.
About technical careers in HVAC and Refrigeration service
HVAC service technicians help to install, maintain, and repair Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems in residential and commercial properties as well as industrial facilities. Refrigeration service technicians work with Refrigeration equipment and systems in restaurants, supermarkets, and manufacturing and industrial facilities.
HVACR technicians are essential workers who help to maintain critical infrastructures for business, healthcare, education, utilities, and more. Their services are required by every industry. That’s one reason that the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics has predicted a 15 percent job increase in the field through 2026, a growth rate that far exceeds the average for all occupations.
Learn more: NYC HVAC Job Outlook
Why is HVACR service considered a technical career? Today’s HVAC and Refrigeration systems are increasingly complex systems that are monitored, controlled, and diagnosed with computers. They are also integrated with other smart building systems. New technology requires a new breed of HVAC and Refrigeration technicians who not only understand traditional mechanics and troubleshooting, but also have electronics and computer technology skills.
Why these technical careers don’t require a college degree
There are a handful of colleges and some technical schools that offer programs in HVAC and Refrigeration, and they do a great job of preparing students for technical careers in the field.
However, the more common path to working as an HVACR service technician is through on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs. Most HVACR employers will tell you that, while classroom training has important value, technicians learn best in the field, where they have the chance to gradually practice the skills they are learning under the watchful eye of a more experienced technician.
What do HVAC & Refrigeration technicians need to succeed?
Technical aptitude. To be successful as an HVACR technician, job candidates must have the smarts and the skills to work with complex technology.
Curiosity and determination. In HVACR service, technology is evolving quickly and there’s always a lot to learn. Service technicians must be able to keep up with all the changes. That’s why people who enjoy learning and figuring out how things work tend to do well.
Problem solving ability. Being able to visualize a system, analyze issues, and uncover the root causes of a problem are valuable skills for an HVACR technician.
Communication and customer service skills. As a service technician, a big part of the job involves communicating effectively with customers and coworkers.
Energy and work ethic. If you feel most comfortable sitting behind a desk all day, HVACR service is not the field for you. Service technicians are on the go all day, and working in a variety of locations and conditions. During peak seasons, they often work long hours (and make a great income doing it).
Reliability. This is one of the top qualities employers look for when hiring new apprentices. They need people they can count on to show up and deliver on commitments.
Here’s an easy way for anyone thinking about this career to find out if they are a good fit: take our simple quiz.
Benefits of a career as an HVACR service technician
No college debt. With on-the-job training, including training provided by local HVAC unions, new technicians can earn while they learn,
Excellent pay and benefits. Here in the New York City area, a second-year union service technician can earn over $40,000 working full time, even without overtime. With ongoing training, the earnings potential for technical careers in this field grows to $100,000 or more within 5 years. Plus, union membership provides fully paid medical benefits and even a pension.
Job security. No matter the economic climate, residential and commercial heating and cooling systems must be maintained, repaired, and replaced when they reach end-of-life. The same is true for mission-critical refrigeration systems used in food service, manufacturing, and other industries. That’s one reason that HVACR technicians will always be needed.
Plus, there’s a growing shortage of skilled HVACR technicians due to a large number of workers nearing retirement.
Interesting, varied, and rewarding work. A service technician’s job is never boring. There are a variety of work assignments, new types of systems to learn, and new repair issues to diagnose and fix. Plus, people who enjoy helping others report getting job satisfaction every day from fixing customers’ problems and leaving them happy.
Watch our videos to learn more about the benefits of a technical career in HVACR service and what to expect.
Opportunities for advancement
Working as an HVAC or Refrigeration service technician offers a variety of opportunities to those who aspire to move into leadership roles. Technicians can become field supervisors, service managers, parts managers, project managers, just to name a few possibilities.
Learn more: HVAC Career Path: What Are the Possibilities for Service Technicians?
How to pursue a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service
Here in the NYC area, the best way to get started is to apply for an apprentice or “helper” position with an HVAC or Refrigeration service provider.
Employers aren’t looking for any industry experience when they hire for entry-level helper positions. What’s important is having the right combination of personal qualities and skills.
To get started, check out our resources for creating your HVAC resume.
HVACR Career Connect NY was created to promote the exceptional quality-of-life benefits of a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service, and also to provide a clear path for getting started in the profession. In doing so, we serve as a resource for employers in the New York City metro area to find and hire smart and capable new technicians. We also serve as an educational resource to support business growth and to help service technicians succeed in their chosen profession.
Learn about technical careers in the HVAC & Refrigeration industry, how to get hired and tips to build your career.