If you’ve been thinking about a hands-on career that keeps homes and businesses comfortable, earning an HVAC certificate is a practical and common way to enter the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning field. The HVAC industry is evolving fast—and skilled technicians who can work with modern HVAC systems are more valuable than ever.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2024, jobs for HVAC technicians and installers are expected to grow much faster than average through 2034, offering steady income and strong career advancement opportunities.1 Whether your career goals include becoming a certified HVAC technician, working in renewable energy, or teaching others, this guide explains the roles you can pursue with an HVAC certification
Key Takeaways
- An HVAC certificate prepares you for diverse roles in air conditioning and refrigeration installation and maintenance work.
- Most HVAC training programs take less than a year and can lead to entry-level roles with room for career advancement.
- Certified HVAC technicians can work independently, for major contractors, or even teach in accredited HVAC programs.
- Completing an EPA certification is mandatory under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
- Online HVAC training programs and hybrid options make it easier to gain skills and earn your certificate on your own time.
What Can You Do With an HVAC Certificate?
With an HVAC certificate, you can qualify for multiple trade and renewable-energy careers that rely on HVACR systems and refrigeration mechanics expertise. Professionally trained HVAC technicians are essential to install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems that regulate indoor air quality and temperature.
The BLS occupational outlook handbook shows that employment for HVACR technicians and installers is expected to grow by eight percent from 2024 to 2034.1
The following list outlines the possible HVAC jobs you can get with a certificate in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
HVAC Technician
Earning your HVAC certificate opens the door to working as a certified HVAC technician servicing residential and commercial HVAC systems. As an HVAC technician, you’ll have the flexibility to work for yourself or join a larger HVAC school or company that manages multiple properties. According to the BLS, the median average salary for HVAC technicians was $59,810 in May 2024.1
AC Technician
Specializing as an air conditioning or AC technician allows you to focus just on cooling and air conditioning systems. In this role, you’ll install, troubleshoot, and repair residential and commercial air conditioning and refrigeration units.
AC technicians use diagnostic tools to check for leaks, optimize cooling performance, and handle refrigerants safely under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. AC technicians’ salaries generally align with those of broader HVACR technicians.1
Solar Energy Technician
With an HVAC certificate, you can transition into the renewable energy field by becoming a solar energy technician. This role combines the fundamentals of HVAC training—like electrical systems, airflow, and refrigeration—with solar technology.
Solar technicians often work outdoors installing and repairing rooftop energy systems. Some accredited HVAC programs now include renewable energy integration and sustainable practices training to prepare students for green energy careers. While pay varies by state, entry-level roles are comparable to general HVAC technician earnings.1
Wind Turbine Technician
Another exciting role for those with energy efficiency HVAC training is working as a wind turbine technician. Many of the essential skills learned in an HVAC training program—such as electrical work, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting—transfer directly into wind energy maintenance, although you may need additional education and certifications to become qualified for this role.
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for wind turbine service technicians was $62,580 in May 2024, with projected employment growth of 50 percent through 2034.2 This fast-growing sector rewards adaptability, practical experience, and safety awareness.
HVAC Instructor
After gaining practical experience, HVAC technicians can move into teaching roles as HVAC instructors. You can prepare students for certification exams, share your field knowledge, and train the next generation of skilled HVACR technicians.
HVAC instructors are often employed by community colleges or private HVAC schools. According to the BLS, comparable supervisory roles report a median wage of $75,820 per year in May 2023.3
Essential Info
Understanding certification and licensing requirements is vital before starting any HVAC training. Most states require a high school diploma or GED to enroll in an online HVAC training program or traditional, in-person HVAC school.
Training can be as short as six months and as long as two years, depending on your schedule and the HVAC training program you choose. Federal law under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that anyone who handles refrigerants must pass an EPA certification exam approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).4
Graduates of HVAC courses can pursue HVACR technician roles, focusing on installation, repair, or commercial refrigeration. Many accredited HVAC programs now include flexible online HVAC training components that allow you to complete coursework at your own pace and develop the skills needed for career advancement.
Sources:
2 https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/wind-turbine-technicians.htm
3https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes491011.htm
4https://www.epa.gov/section608/section-608-technician-certification-requirements
