Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology

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:

• Commercial A/C – residential and light commercial applications
• Building Automation – building automation controls within the commercial HVAC context
• Commercial Refrigeration – commercial refrigeration systems

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:

• HVACR electricity and electrical equipment
• HVAC controls
• Comfort cooling systems
• Oil, gas and electric heating systems
• Maintenance and servicing
• Schematics and diagrams 

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.

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Employment

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:

• Johnson Controls
• Piedmont Air Conditioning
• Encompass
• American Residential Services
• Service Experts
• Southern Piping
• Triangle Refrigeration
• Greater Raleigh Refrigeration
• Johnstone Supply Company
• Lincoln Properties
• Fowler and Sons Refrigeration