The Career
People are continually seeking ways to make their environment more comfortable and improve energy efficiency. Today’s heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems control the temperature, humidity and the total air quality in residential, commercial, industrial and other buildings. Refrigeration systems make it possible to store and transport food, medicine and other perishable items.
Heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) mechanics and installers- also called technicians-set-up, maintain and repair such systems. These professionals are currently in demand as the industry is experiencing faster than average job growth, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Be able to identify, troubleshoot and resolve related mechanical issues
- Have a basic understanding of electricity
- Possess solid customer service skills
- Be punctual and reliable
- Have good hand-eye coordination and pay close attention to details
- Be in good physical condition
Employment and Salary Information
Median annual earnings of heating, airconditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers were $42,530 in May 2010, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries ranged from below $26,490 (lowest 10 percent) to more than $66,930 (top 10 percent).
Median yearly wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of these technicians were:
| Building Equipment Contractors |
$40,630 |
| Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment Repair |
$43,460 |
| Direct Selling Establishments |
$44,210 |
| Hardware, Plumbing and Heating Equipment Wholesalers |
$46,540 |
The Program
The goal of the East Central College HVAC/R Program is to empower graduates who hold this degree to be the top hiring candidates among regional employers. To this end, experienced faculty offer high-quality, hands-on instruction to students using the most current methods, equipment and systems.
The two-year degree plan includes air conditioning, ventilation, heating and refrigeration theory, and the design and construction of the equipment. Students also learn the basics of set-up, maintenance and repair. This training prepares them to enter the workforce as HVAC/R technicians upon graduation.
ECC students have the choice of two tracks of study including day or evening classes, and a full-time or part-time schedule. They are encouraged to contact the program coordinator for more information and advisement.
Admissions Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation must be sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Transfer Options
The AAS degree is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. However, many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, may qualify as transfer credit at four-year schools.
Please note that these decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution, not ECC. Students seeking to transfer are advised to contact the institution of their choice before beginning a program or reviewing other degrees and coursework offered through East Central.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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