HVAC Careers in Baltimore
Baltimore has a real need for skilled HVAC installers and technicians, and the demand is growing larger everyday. With the proper background and training, an HVAC technician in the Baltimore area can rely on a stable job environment, good pay, and a challenging career. HVAC technicians and installers have the same basic training, although students tend to focus on one or the other once in the field. Installers are typically responsible for making all the appropriate connections, initial testing and integration of new systems, while technicians tend to focus on maintaining and servicing systems already in place like thermostats, refrigeration units, and air conditioning units. Regardless of the focus, both technicians and installers may find themselves working in residential, medical, or industrial applications.
Salary and Projected Job Outlook for HVAC Careers in Baltimore
HVAC installers and technicians have a starting salary of around thirty-five thousand per year to more than forty thousand depending on the particular job requirements and skill level. This is not the ceiling though, through continued education, certifications, and experience HVAC specialists can continue to increase their pay throughout their careers. The projected outlook for the HVAC field as a whole is expected to increase almost thirty percent by 2018; this is the equivalent of well over eighty-six thousand new jobs.
Education and Certification for HVAC in Baltimore
The HVAC field is much more than just working on thermostats and checking temperatures; it is a melding of air flow dynamics, mechanical, electrical, and mathematical principles. Technicians and installers will need a thorough understanding of electrical testing equipment, safety guidelines, and even customer service basics. There are a wide range of options when it comes to HVAC training in the Baltimore area; several online schools, tradition universities, and technical colleges offer programs ranging from six months to several years.
It is widely accepted as a standard that the three endorsements all HVAC workers need are the HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation. Once this accreditation is obtained, an internship of two to three years is required to be considered an experienced HVAC technician or installer.
Schools Offering HVAC Training in Baltimore
Tesst College of Technology
1520 South Caton Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21227
www.baltimore.tesst.com
North American Trade Schools
6901 Security Blvd. Ste.16
Baltimore, MD 21244
www.natradeschools.com/home/hvac-training-md/
Financial Aid for Baltimore HVAC Students
There are a variety financial assistance options in Baltimore for those that qualify. The federal FAFSA form is one of the best starting points, and you can always contact the particular school you are interested in; most schools will have their own financial assistance department to help you navigate through the process. Two more resources for Maryland students are the Maryland Higher Education Commission (www.mhec.state.md.us) and the Maryland Association of Student Financial Aid (www.dedcmdasfaa.org).
