HVAC & Refrigeration

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.

Admission Requirements and Curriculum

HVAC & Refrigeration

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About the Program

The Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration programs at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville are widely recognized as among the oldest continually operating HVAC‑R training programs in Alabama and have earned an outstanding reputation for graduate success. Designed to prepare students for a high‑demand industry, the program equips future HVAC/R installers and service technicians with a strong foundation in the mechanical, electrical, and scientific principles common to all HVAC/R systems, while emphasizing proper work practices and high ethical standards. Through a rigorous academic curriculum combined with hands‑on, practical training, Wallace State prepares students to meet evolving technological and trade standards, pursue industry certifications, and develop the technical, craft, soft, and business skills essential for long‑term career success in the HVAC/R field.


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Our program maintains partnerships with local companies to help students secure internships during their studies, with the opportunity to begin part‑time work through the internship schedule after completing the first half of the program.

 

Employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 40,100 openings for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

The median annual wage for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers was $59,810 in May 2024. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

 


Program Overview

HVAC & Refrigeration


Degrees/Awards Offered

AAS, C, STC


Availability

  • Day
  • Evening

HVAC & Refrigeration

Curriculum: Program of Study

Pathway Maps: Associate in Applied Science, Certificate, Short Term Certificates

Career Outlook

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