Heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians work with the systems that heat and cool indoor structures. They set up, maintain and replace these units as necessary, helping residents live more comfortably. Many professionals choose this career for the hands-on environment and steady work opportunities.
There is a high demand for HVAC technicians due to increased construction work and increased use of cooling systems. Factors like climate change are also impacting the industry — climate change increases outdoor temperatures, making people use their HVAC systems more, resulting in more work for HVAC units. Technicians are essential for maintaining units and ensuring people can manage the heat.
The demand for HVAC technicians remains steady and is projected to grow consistently in upcoming years. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% growth for HVAC technicians in the next 10 years, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
HVAC technicians provide the integral task of installing and maintaining heating and air conditioning units. These systems are essential structures for comfort and safety, found in most homes and commercial spaces throughout the United States. Technicians use their expertise to ensure the units run efficiently.
The demand for HVAC technicians remains strong due to factors like:
Labor market changes: Steady job numbers remain as normal job market changes occur. Regular volumes of people enter and leave the field for various reasons each year, altering the number of available positions. For instance, HVAC technicians might retire or switch to a new field, allowing for more job openings. Low technician numbers can drive demand even further as more work becomes necessary.
Increased residential and commercial construction: The world is increasingly becoming more urbanized, increasing demand for building and residential construction. The United Nations anticipates that two-thirds of the global population will live in an urban area by 2050. As construction workers build new infrastructure, they need technicians to install HVAC units. The more construction projects in development, the more HVAC technicians are necessary.
More demand for energy efficiency: As climate change concerns grow, more property owners and construction managers prioritize energy-efficient systems. HVAC technicians can help replace existing units with efficient alternatives.
What States Have the Highest Demand for HVAC Technicians?
While the HVAC technician position shows consistent growth across the entire United States, certain states have more job openings than others. These six states have the highest number of projected job positions each year:
Florida: Florida has the highest projected number of job openings for HVAC technicians, with 4,430 projected positions in upcoming years. The large growth is likely due to the state’s exposure to natural disasters like hurricanes, which can severely damage infrastructure. During rebuilding projects, technicians are essential for installing replacement HVAC units. In addition, Florida is known for extreme heat in the summer months, with temperatures rarely dipping below 70 degrees F. The heat prompts more demand for HVAC system installation and maintenance.
Texas: Texas shows the next highest demand for HVAC technicians, with an annual average of 4,410 openings in the next years. Texas also experiences extreme heat during summer, putting more strain on HVAC systems. For example, the popular city of Dallas has an average daily temperature of 96 degrees F in July and August each year. The more people rely on their air conditioning systems to stay cool, the more likely they could need maintenance work to maintain the unit’s efficiency.
California: California has 3,960 annual openings for HVAC technicians on average, which displays significant growth each year. As the most populated state in the United States, the area requires higher numbers of HVAC technicians to meet residential and commercial requirements. The state also experiences natural disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, floods and drought that increase demand for rebuilding projects.
New York: New York state also has a steady demand for HVAC technicians, with 2,110 projected new positions each year. New York also has a high population and many urban areas that increase the need for indoor HVAC systems. As cities expand, more HVAC expertise is necessary to outfit properties with heating and cooling systems.
How to Become an HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians enjoy consistent work opportunities, competitive pay and a strong work-life balance. These advantages convince many professionals to enter the field, either as their first career or during a career change.
Those interested in becoming an HVAC technician can follow these steps:
Earn your high school diploma: Most employers require a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) test as a foundational component for an HVAC technician career. You might also have opportunities to take technical courses that relate to HVAC design or installation.
Complete an HVAC training program: Next, aspiring technicians can enroll in training programs specifically tailored for HVAC certification. Depending on your location, preferences and budget, you can select from certification programs, associate degrees or bachelor’s degrees. Certification programs usually take less time and focus only on the necessary skills and knowledge for HVAC technician careers. In contrast, two- or four-year degrees provide more general education courses and opportunities for elective study.
Finish an apprenticeship: Many training HVAC technicians enroll in apprenticeships following completion of a degree or certificate program. These arrangements usually last several years and let graduates gain in-field experience under the supervision of professionals. You can find these opportunities through trade unions or by connecting with professionals during program study.
Receive licensure: States require state licenses for HVAC technician work. Specific license requirements vary by state. Many have separate certification levels for different appliance types, such as just for heating systems or air conditioning units. To receive your license, you typically have to take an exam and provide other documentation of training.
Learn About Strada Air Conditioning & Heating HVAC Solutions
HVAC technicians are essential for effective use of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems. As urbanization and climate change policies increase, the demand for this career stays stronger than ever. Experienced and reliable HVAC professionals have the skills to meet heating and cooling demands across the country.
If you need high-quality HVAC services, choose Strada Air Conditioning & Heating today. We have over 20 years of experience in the field, offering personalized solutions and support for all clients. Our repair, installation and maintenance solutions ensure your heating and air conditioning units function at their best. Whether you notice a performance issue or are interested in an upgrade, we have the tools and expertise you need to resolve the issue.
To get started with Strada Air Conditioning & Heating, contact us today.
Joe Strada, owner of Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning, started working at the young age of 14. He’s never attended college, but he has spent his life dedicating his time and energy to his trade and providing high-quality services to his customers.
At 19, Joe started working at a well-known air conditioning company and developing his commitment to excellence. He has state certifications in electric, plumbing, air conditioning, residential building and general contracting. During his years of training and experience, Joe noticed a sincere need for a dependable electrical contractor in Florida who embodied the same dedication to customer service in which he believed.
In 2003, Joe co-founded Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning. Since then, the company has been in the business of providing peace of mind to customers. We offer expert electric, security and air conditioning solutions for homes and businesses, leveraging our experience to deliver professional and responsive service with reliability and respect.
Joe Strada, owner of Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning, started working at the young age of 14. He’s never attended college, but he has spent his life dedicating his time and energy to his trade and providing high-quality services to his customers.
At 19, Joe started working at a well-known air conditioning company and developing his commitment to excellence. He has state certifications in electric, plumbing, air conditioning, residential building and general contracting. During his years of training and experience, Joe noticed a sincere need for a dependable electrical contractor in Florida who embodied the same dedication to customer service in which he believed.
In 2003, Joe co-founded Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning. Since then, the company has been in the business of providing peace of mind to customers. We offer expert electric, security and air conditioning solutions for homes and businesses, leveraging our experience to deliver professional and responsive service with reliability and respect.
