career connection
HVAC
A COOL JOB WITH
HOT PROSPECTS
Can you name one area or industry that
doesn’t rely on some form of Heating,
Cooling, Ventilation and Refrigeration? Nope–
they all do! An HVAC mechanic/installer can
be found in industrial maintenance, the con-
struction industry, the automotive industry,
retail, as well as the medical and pharmaceuti-
cal industry.
Not interested in a career requiring a traditional 4-year college
stint? The short certificate can be completed in two semesters,
and the long certificate in just four. Jeff Sweatmon, instructor
in the ACR (Air Conditioning/Refrigeration) department at
Lawson State Community College, says, “We can help you ob-
tain your national certifications, and we also have a contractors
review course that can help you prepare for your state certifica-
tion.” As HVACR technicians, graduates will be skilled in both
commercial and residential service.
According to the most current report from the U.S. Department
of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in the HVAC
industry is on the rise. In addition, HVAC careers can be perfect
for those interested in owning their own business.
Quick Facts: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics
2015 Median Pay $45,110 per year
$21.69 per hour
Number of Jobs, 2014 292,000
Job Outlook, 2014-24 14% (Much faster than average)
Whoa!
Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm
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Summer 2017