Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems all fall under the expertise of HVAC professionals. In general, HVAC Technicians can design, install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems of all types.

Technicians often specialize in either installation or maintenance and repair, although they are trained to do both. They also may specialize in doing heating work or air-conditioning or refrigeration work. Some specialize in one type of equipment—for example, hydronics (water-based heating systems), high velocity systems, solar panels, or commercial refrigeration.

HVAC careers are experiencing a job growth much faster than the average, and heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration technicians and installers should have excellent employment opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics these jobs will grow 28% by 2018. With virtually all new homes and buildings being built with centralized heating and cooling systems, HVAC and refrigeration technicians can expect continued growth in demand. Demand for refrigeration systems in the food service, healthcare, and other industries also remains steady.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos192.htm