Modern homes are marvels of technology. They have indoor heating, cooling, and ventilating refrigeration. When they work like clockwork, everything flows well. When something fails to operate as it should, chaos can develop. In the dead of winter, people panic when the heating system stops working. They become frantic in summer if the AC is not functioning as it should. With these services continually becoming the norm, it is no wonder technically savvy people want to enter the HVAC business. It is possible to do so upon getting an HVAC associate degree.
Who is Best Suited for an HVAC Associate Degree?
If you decide this is a potential career choice, it is important you take a good look at your character and abilities. Ask yourself the following questions:
1. Do I have an analytical mind?
2. Can I work on my own as well as with others?
3. Am I good at trouble shooting potential problems?
4. Am I meticulous in my search for answers?
5. Am I detail-oriented?
6. Do I enjoy working with my hands?
7. Do I enjoy sometimes dirty manual labor?
8. Do I have some people skills?
If you are strong in most of these areas, you should look at the potential of registering for courses to obtain an HVAC associate degree.
The Curriculum
While the curriculum may vary they will include those designed to address the structure, operation and installation of the various systems involved in HVAC. They will include specialized training on working with mechanical systems and certain legal requirements form the handling of any EPA materials.
Employment Opportunities
Once you have an HVAC associate degree, you will find yourself capable of working in a variety of setting. These include new homes and older residences. You may also find yourself employed in repair, maintenance and/or installation work at many commercial businesses, offices or industries. Do take note, however, that following completion, you will have to take state-specific exams to receive certification.
If you wish to become a HVAC technician, the first place to start is at a technical school. While some begin their career by taking related courses in high school, many more find their way into this field by taking an HVAC associate degree in a technical school or college. However, your way into this career begins, it is most likely to end with the chance of full employment in the challenging profession of HVAC.
