HVAC

Ryan Iversen, Instructor
256.352.8140
ryan.iversen@wallacestate.edu
www.wallacestate.edu/hvac

Associate in Applied Science Degree (4 semesters)

Certificate (4 semesters)

Short-Term Certificates (1 semester)

At a Glance

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration is a broad-reaching industry that plays a vital role across the globe in many different industries. It is required to maintain affordable, convenient, and safe food supplies; it is used in manufacturing and is also considered to be a necessary component of most human environments. The complexity of this field allows for many opportunities. Its foundation is based in sound technical knowledge and specialized skill sets. Focusing on this foundation prepares a technician for many possibilities.

Program Description

The program offers two options. First, an AAS in General Technology, which consists of 64 semester hours, allows a completing student to seek immediate employment within the industry, sit for the contractors exam, and/or enables the completer to transfer their credits to a four-year institution and continue their education towards a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or another related field. Second, a certificate consisting of 55 semester hours prepares students to immediately seek a position in the HVAC/R industry and/or meets the requirements of the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors to sit for the Contractors Licensing Exam.

Program Expectations

Students in the HVAC/R program are expected to observe all policies that are set forth by Wallace State Community College. These policies can be found in the College Catalog. In addition, students are expected to maintain regular communications with the instructors, attend classes regularly, submit assignments as required, participate in laboratory exercises, and observe all program policies which are discussed in class and provided in a written format.

Completion Requirements

To successfully complete the HVAC/R program students are required to attend class meetings, study the textbook and other resources, submit assignments and receive passing scores of 70 or higher, and take examinations and receive passing scores of 70 or higher. Additionally, students are required to participate in laboratory exercises and demonstrate satisfactory levels of required skill sets. 

Career Path

A student’s career path begins here at Wallace State by acquiring technical knowledge, learning necessary skills, and achieving industry certifications. Upon completion, the student is prepared to immediately become employed within the industry and continue in the advancement of their excellence. Also, a student may choose to immediately receive a license to begin contracting HVAC/R services as a business owner or employee. Additionally, students may choose to further their education towards a higher degree at a 4-year institution in fields such as business, engineering, occupational safety and health, technical education, and others. Median annual earnings of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers was $51,390 in 2022. Employment is expected to grow 14 percent from 2014-2025, which is much faster than the average for all occupations (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics).