Completing an accredited Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC) training program is an important first step in starting your career in HVAC. Upon graduation, you are ready to pursue an entry-level position as an HVAC technician, installing and repairing HVAC systems.
But maybe you’re wondering what’s next? What are my career options after I’ve been in the field for a few years? The HVAC career path has a number of mid- and senior-level positions to aspire to, depending on your interests and goals.
Mid-Level Positions
HVAC technicians who have five or more years of experience and a strong understanding of the role could become HVAC Service Managers. This job involves supervising a team of HVAC technicians and identifying and even providing any additional training or education they may need. The HVAC Service Manager may also be responsible for creating a daily schedule and assigning work. They may also be involved in interviewing and hiring new employees.
An HVAC Controls Technician is another career path an HVAC technician can follow. This job involves wiring and installing equipment and programming a computer to create control sequences. As HVAC equipment becomes more complex, HVAC Controls Technicians may become more vital, helping design and troubleshoot systems that are connected to automated building infrastructures.
A third career path for HVAC technicians who have five or more years of experience is to become a Manufacturer’s Representative for companies that sell HVAC products. This job involves selling, but it is essential that these sales reps are also HVAC technicians who have hands-on product knowledge so they can excel at the role. Their experience will help them better understand the customer’s needs.
Senior-Level Positions
As you move up the career ladder, consider becoming an HVAC Controls or Automation Systems Engineer. This position involves implementing, modifying and maintaining the HVAC control system. Engineers supervise the installation and maintenance of centralized controls that operate a building’s lighting, heating and cooling systems. In some cases, employers prefer that candidates have a four-year degree, so this path may require additional education.
One more option to consider if you enjoy working as an HVAC technician and want to help others enter the field, is that of an HVAC Instructor. HVAC Instructors train students on the skills needed to pursue an entry-level position. They may also revise curriculum and training materials as technology changes.
And, if you’ve ever wanted to be your own boss, it’s possible to start your own HVAC business. HVAC installation and repair are essential services, and if you have good managerial and marketing skills, you could start your own company, serving commercial or residential customers.
The first step to any of these career paths is to train to become an HVAC technician, and Fortis can help. Visit our website for more information and to find an HVACR training program near you. Or, call 1-855-436-7847 to speak with a representative today.