Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

HEATING, VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING (CIP CODE 47.0201)

Program Overview

At Western Area CTC, we emphasize both theory and hands-on training for our Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning students. This three-year program provides students the opportunity to gain skills and knowledge for employment in the HVAC industry upon graduation or attendance at a post-secondary school. Course topics include: Introduction to HVAC, Basic Safety, How to Handle Power & Hand Tools Properly Blue Print Reading, Piping Practices, Basic Electricity, Introduction to Cooling, Introduction to Heating Air Distribution Systems, Introduction to Hydronic, Trouble Shooting, Repair and Install all types of HVAC equipment.

HVAC Skills

Students will learn troubleshooting and repairing HVAC equipment, active listening skills, critical thinking, sizing equipment, complex problem solving, brazing, soldering as well as basic safety, power tools, introduction to cooling, heat pumps, furnace repair (oil, gas, and electric) and hydronic heating systems. Although theory is necessary in this program, most of this program is hands-on learning.

Careers and Initiatives

Students will have the opportunity to co-op in their senior year, providing grades and attendance meet state standards.
Discover the many opportunities in the Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning industry.
There are many jobs in Washington and surrounding counties.
In 2020, the average wage for a Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Technician $25.24 hourly, $52, 490 annually; for a Pipe Fitter/Steam Fitter $27.08 hourly, $56,330 annually; for a Sheet Metal Worker $24.70 hourly, $51,370 annually.

Post-Secondary Training Options

To provide students the opportunity to advance their careers, Western Area CTC articulates with several colleges and trade schools, including . . .

Pittsburgh College of Technology
Community College of Allegheny County
ABC Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. Apprenticeship Opportunities

Certifications

CareerSafe OSHA 10 – Construction
Mainstream Engineering: EPA 608
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Credentials
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) HVAC Levels 1, 2, 3 Curriculum Credentials