Heating & Refrigeration
Degrees
Required Degrees and Suggested Courses
Because of the increasing sophistication of heating, air-conditioning,
and refrigeration systems, employers prefer to hire those
with technical school or apprenticeship training. Many mechanics
and installers, however, still learn the trade informally
on the job.
Many secondary and postsecondary technical and trade schools,
junior and community colleges, and the U.S. Armed Forces offer
6-month to 2-year programs in heating, air-conditioning, and
refrigeration. Students study theory, design, and equipment
construction, as well as electronics. They also learn the
basics of installation, maintenance, and repair.
Apprenticeship programs frequently are run by joint committees
representing local chapters of the Air-Conditioning Contractors
of America, the Mechanical Contractors Association of America,
the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors,
and locals of the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association
or the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of
the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States
and Canada.
Other apprenticeship programs are sponsored by local chapters
of the Associated Builders and Contractors and the National
Association of Home Builders. Formal apprenticeship programs
normally last 3 to 5 years and combine on-the-job training
with classroom instruction.
Classes include subjects such as the use and care of tools,
safety practices, blueprint reading, and the theory and design
of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration
systems. Applicants for these programs must have a high school
diploma or equivalent. Math and reading skills are essential.
This site contains all original Content.
Some data sourced from: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
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