Career Outlook

The air conditioning, heating and refrigeration industry is growing year by year. Coupled with current growth demands from new construction, environmental requirements, and retirement by a large baby-boomer population, the industry is forecasting at least 22,000 job opportunities by the year 2014 in California alone.

The industry has been in a growth pattern for several decades due to the need for environmental controls in living and work spaces. Technicians have the ability to work in many diverse facets of the trade along with good mobility should they desire to relocate to another geographical area. Opportunities also exist for self employment as many graduates have started their own business.

Employers and Average Salaries

Typical employers cover a large spectrum. Large manufacturing corporations have their own service, design, and installation departments, while small and medium-sized independent contractors offer secure employment with benefits and a generous income.  Many of our graduates are employed by companies such as Trane, Source Refrigeration, Carrier Corporation, In and Out, and more.

Average wages for a technician are around $23.00 per hour. Annual salaries range from $23,000 to $69,000, depending on size of company and technician skill and experience.

Skill Set

Technicians must have people skills to interact with co-workers and customers. Clean driving records are also a requirement for employment as the technicians may be assigned a service vehicle.