Are you ready for a career change? Fortunately, there are many in-demand industries in need of fresh new talent. It may surprise you to learn there’s been rapid growth in the HVAC industry, making this an appealing field for individuals looking to shift to a career with more flexibility and lucrative pay. The HVAC field offers ample opportunities for growth, including competitive salaries, paid training, and a wide array of employment options in residential and commercial sectors across the U.S. Learning about the many facets of the HVAC field is the first step to determining if an HVAC technician position may be a fit for your skills and interests. To get started, here’s what you need to know:
Required background and qualifications.
HVAC technicians generally must have a high school diploma and undergo a certification training program. Instead of a training program, some technicians opt for an associate’s or bachelor’s degree to fulfill their education requirements. Following their education, most techs complete a formal apprenticeship in which they can apply their knowledge in real-life job settings. In addition to education and experience, there is also a suite of skills and qualifications needed to succeed. In terms of skillset, technicians should be detail-oriented and possess strong customer services abilities. Reliability is also key, as techs must arrive on time to job sites and be willing to address customers’ needs in a timely manner – especially in the event of an urgent situation or emergency. Overall, customer service, interpersonal skills, and a high degree of professionalism are essential for thriving in the HVAC field. If you’ve been employed in different industries, chances are you have already developed many of the skills necessary for an HVAC role.
Industry trends.
The HVAC field will always be in demand; however, advanced HVAC technology has paved the way for more job opportunities across the country. HVAC systems have undergone significant changes over the past several years, with automated systems creating the need for workers to facilitate installation and repairs for HVAC units in both residences and businesses. These newer systems have also resulted in a need for technicians to provide ongoing maintenance to ensure they are fully optimized and functioning. New technology that continues to enter the HVAC space has required technicians to understand how these units operate with new integrated features, such as smart home systems or mobile applications. As automated systems become increasingly mainstream, customers will require 24/7 assistance from HVAC teams who are qualified to troubleshoot problems and make necessary repairs.
Job outlook.
The job outlook for HVAC technicians is positive, as HVAC jobs are expected to grow 15 percent by 2026, with more rapid growth than many other occupations. There are several factors driving growth in the industry, including increased residential and commercial construction across the U.S., the introduction of new heating and cooling technologies, and the need for greater energy efficiency (related to climate change and reducing energy expenses). According to the U.S. Burau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for HVAC technicians in 2020 was $53,410, with varying pay based on location and experience level. As demand for HVAC professionals continues to increase across the country, there’s expected to be a continued need for techs in all areas of the field.
Specialties and concentrations.
As an HVAC technician, you’ll have the option to choose an area or specialty that appeals most to you. There are many types of targeted certifications that will train you for different areas of the industry, such as refrigeration, automotive, project management, and building engineer, among countless others. Becoming certified in a specialty is one of the most impactful ways to specialize in the industry and increase your earning potential. While earning additional certifications is not required to work in the HVAC field, it will help you stand out among others in the industry and make you more marketable in the eyes of employers. There are many HVAC certification options to consider, such as the Indoor Air Quality Certification, the NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification, and the Preventative Maintenance HVAC Certification, just to name a few.
By learning about what the HVAC industry has to offer, you’ll discover what elements of the field may be appealing as you embark on a new career path. Taking time to assess your skills and consider how an HVAC position may suit your professional aspirations moving forward will help you make the best decision for your future job prospects.
Are you interested in exploring an HVAC career? Contact the specialized recruiters at HH Staffing, a Florida-based staffing agency, and learn how working with our team can connect you with employment opportunities in the exciting and ever-growing HVAC industry!
Until Next Time,
Your Staffing Partner, Darrin Rohr- President, CEO, and Chief Servant
Current owner of HH Staffing and Former Chief HR Officer for several successful Multinational Fortune 500 Companies. Brings a fresh perspective from decades of experiences creating Great Workplace Cultures by building high-performance teams while leading and managing people from all different backgrounds. HH Staffing is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida, and is uniquely positioned to serve both local and national clients.
