What do you want to be when you grow up? Some people are lucky and find the perfect career right off the bat, but many of us try different jobs and career paths, hoping the next one will be “it”. Don’t let chance decide what the best career path is for you, research the possibilities! Use your friends and family to introduce you to acquaintances employed in positions that peak your interest.
Are you friendly, polite and punctual? Those are all customer service skills which are important when dealing with the public. What about detail oriented? Well maintained records of work is a plus in some career paths. Are you mechanically adept and able to identify problems and then determine how to repair them? Those are troubleshooting skills that are essential to many career paths. These are all qualities that are important to HVACR technicians.
The Heating and Air Conditioning Technology program at Hinds Community College is designed to prepare individuals to work in engineering departments or private firms installing, maintaining, and operating small or medium air conditioning, heating and refrigeration systems. It also prepares individuals to work in a commercial setting performing special tasks relating to designing ductwork, assembly, installation, servicing, operation, and maintenance of heating and cooling systems according to industry standards. Included are air-conditioning, heating, and refrigeration devices; equipment, techniques, and systems; and maintenance and operation of these systems.
What Do HVAC Technicians Do?
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Install or repair HVACR systems using blueprints or design specifications
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Connect systems to fuel and water supply lines, air ducts, and other components
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Install and test electrical wiring and controls for proper operation
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Inspect and maintain customers’ HVACR systems
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Determine necessary repairs by testing individual components
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Repair or replace worn or defective parts
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Make recommendations to improve efficiency
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Travel to worksites
Will I Be Able To Find A Job?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow 21 percent through 2022. This increase is being driven by commercial and residential construction. Sophisticated climate-control systems are also increasing the demand for qualified HVACR technicians as is the need for replacement of systems which typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.
Job opportunities for HVACR technicians are expected to be excellent, particularly for those who have completed training at an accredited technical school or through an apprenticeship. Candidates with the best job opportunities will be those familiar with computers and electronics, as well as those who have developed troubleshooting skills. Typical jobs filled by students who have completed this program at Hinds include apprentice HVACR technicians.
Need More Information?
This program is located on the Raymond campus of Hinds Community College. For more information on the HVAC program, contact Eddie Carson (WECarson@hindscc.edu) or Pat Granger (Michael.Granger@hindscc.edu) or call them at 601.857.3319.
