Location: East Campus (Oley)
Instructor:  Thomas Danner
Order Supplies
CIP Code: 47.0201

Program Entrance Recommendations:

Reading at grade level
Mathematics - See note above.
Problem solving/troubleshooting skills
Ability to work independently and in a team
Hand-eye coordination
Mechanical aptitude

Career Pathways

Refrigeration Mechanic
Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic
Sheet Metal Worker
Energy Auditor
Air Conditioning and Heating Engineer
Refrigeration Engineer
Energy Management Control Engineer
Factory Service Representative
Estimator
Stationary Engineer
HVAC Contractor

HVAC Excellence

This program is accredited through HVAC Excellence to assure that the curriculum taught meets or exceeds the National Skill Standards. Having this accreditation enables BCTC to more easily articulate credits with other institutions and apply for public and private funds. Visit www.hvacexcellence.org for further information.

 NCCER – National Center for Construction Education and Research

The HVAC/R program participates in NCCER. This curricula and training process is supported by trade associations, contractors, schools, construction and maintenance users, pipeline operators, manufacturers, and third-party training providers. Visit www.nccer.org for further information. 

PBA - Pennsylvania's Builder's Association

The program is a PBA endorsed program, which allows students who complete the program at the competent and above level to earn a PBA Certification.  Visit www.pabuilders.org/ for more information.

This program is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) through the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and provides participants with defined career paths in the industry. The program uses project-based methods and national performance standards to teach students the knowledge and skills needed for a successful future in this field.

Instruction in this course includes the theory and application of the basic principles involved in the conditioning of air, cooling, heating, filtering and controlling of humidity. Students develop skills in assembling and installing tubes and pipes, motors, compressors, control devices, valves and thermostats, and gain an understanding of blueprints and schematics related to equipment and systems. Students must be able to diagnose equipment malfunctions and be able to read and understand technical reference manuals. Energy management control technology is taught as it relates to domestic, commercial and industrial air systems, heat pumps, forced air conditioning systems and microcomputer systems control.

Mathematics Note: HVAC technicians are increasingly required to perform complex mathematical operations and calculations when performing work in the field. Therefore, it is highly recommended that students enter the program with a strong foundation in Algebra I and Geometry. In addition, students are advised to complete Algebra II, Trigonometry and Physics during high school to have the necessary academic and technical skills to successfully enter the workforce and/or postsecondary education.

Graduates of this program have excellent opportunities for entry level employment, to pursue an apprenticeship, or continue their education in a technical postsecondary program.

Program Requirements/Costs (approximate):

Please use the Order Supplies link for the approximate costs of the Textbooks, Tools & Supplies, and Uniforms for this program.

Industry certification testing fees - $35/test*

* BCTC will pay for one pair of safety glasses (if required) and may assist with payment for the testing fees or core certification tests (first time only).  Additional safety glasses and testing fees must be paid by the student.

Industry Certifications:

Student Outcome Assessment (HVAC Excellence)
EPA 608 Certification
NCCER Core
Section 609 Certification for Refrigerant Recycling and Recovery 
Pennsylvania Builders Association Skills Certificate (based on NOCTI)
OSHA/CareerSafe 10-Hour Certification
OSHA 30-hour Certification