An air conditioning, heating and refrigeration (AHR) technician is trained to design, install and service air conditioning, heating and refrigeration equipment in residential and light commercial applications.
Most homes, workplaces and dining or entertainment spots have heat and air conditioning. Most also have refrigerators, freezers and ice makers. There is an obvious need for qualified technicians in this field, and the industry is focused on keeping people comfortable, their drinks cold and their food preserved. The AHR industry is one of the most demanding in that there are several trades involved. You must become proficient in the electrical, sheet metal and piping trades. In order to accomplish this in the given time frame, it takes a dedicated person who is willing to set goals and work hard.
Wake Tech's AHR program is designed to provide students with the basic skills to design, install and service air conditioning, heating and refrigeration equipment and is offered with three different degree tracks:
The program also has a "fast-track" option in which students enroll in the daytime AAS degree program and take classes two days a week. The rest of the week, they can pursue a position in the trade while being a full-time student.
The fast-track program covers the following:
Once they graduate, technicians may decide to pursue design work, fabrication, installation or service work in a residential or commercial setting. Demand is great for qualified individuals in this field.
The industry needs personnel in all areas, including installation, servicing and sales. According to job market research, there are 15 to 25 jobs for every qualified technician nationwide. Starting salaries are between $11 and $15 per hour. However, with overtime and performance pay, several past graduates have reported making more than $40,000 their first year. This is a self-paced career, and earnings will rise rapidly with experience and knowledge.
Employment choices among local or nationwide companies is almost limitless, including the following:
Wake Tech academic programs (credit and non-credit) that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to North Carolina or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside North Carolina once you have completed your academic program at Wake Tech, please refer to the Professional Licensure section of the college's distance education authorization page for additional information.
"The instructors at Wake Tech are great! A lot of them have businesses on the side,
and they teach us everything we need to know."
Max Verplank
Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Technology, Class of 2022