Jobs in the area of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) have been steadily on the rise. Not only are mechanics in greater demand, but the diversity of HVAC-related occupations affords plenty of additional opportunities for employment. Training for this expanding field can open career possibilities in a variety of areas, bringing acquired skills and individual talents together to create the ideal situation for the eager professional. Fast track programs designed to have high impact in a short amount of time can prepare you and get you up to speed in just a short period of time.
‘HVACR technicians work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings’ (BLS.gov). A discussion of activities related to the industry may help to bring these career choices to light.
Field Operations
The most visible work in HVAC is field operations. Individuals and teams daily perform the tasks of installation, repair, and maintenance of heating and air conditioning systems in both residential and commercial settings. The job requires training in all aspects of the workings of the units. Whereas the necessary skills were once primarily mechanical in nature, modern units now demand extensive technological knowledge for field duties. The innovations have also created additional careers such as equipment performance tester, energy monitor, and indoor air quality inspector.
In-House Support
Many workers support field operations from behind the scenes. Fleet managers, service personnel, and dispatchers keep transport running smoothly. Office personnel and accounting staff handle the day-to-day activities of the business. Trainers and safety directors help protect the workers, and tech support keeps systems functioning smoothly. Marketing and sales teams now include SEO managers for Internet content and website maintenance.
Some opportunities require a blending of HVAC knowledge with training or expertise outside the field. Technical writers must be acquainted with the products and adept at written communication. Legal departments keep the business in compliance with government regulations. The expanding global market has created an industry need for translators to interpret documents and information into other languages.
Manufacturing and Product Development
Innovations in design may make manufacturing and product development the areas that see the most advances in job creation. The increasing sophistication of HVAC components demands a blending of mechanical and electronic expertise in engineering and design. Workers in manufacturing require more technological savvy in producing and reading blueprints and maintaining machinery. New positions are emerging in graphics, imaging, and software creation for applications and training. Ecological issues have spawned the need for green technology experts in production and development. Other behind-the-scenes positions include package designers and product test specialists. Introduction of wireless components and communications equipment brings another level of specialty in engineering and design.
HVAC Employers
With such a wide choice of jobs within the field of HVAC, jobs are available in many different arenas. In addition to manufacturing, corporate offices, and field operations, there are settings such as the following:
- Engineering firms
- Distributors
- Contractors
- Surveyors
- Energy management
Opportunities also exist for business ownership, consulting and independent operations in all aspects of the HVAC industry.
A Career With Possibilities
In addition to its broad spectrum of careers, HVAC offers room for advancement and adaptation of skills in other fields. Industry growth promises a continuation of job offerings and creation of more new occupations, increasing possibilities in coming years. The variety and availability of HVAC related positions makes it an optimal choice for a rewarding future.