Choosing to enroll at an HVAC school is a big decision. A career as an HVAC technician can provide many benefits if you start with the right program.
Pennco Tech offers a Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) program in New Jersey and Pennsylvania that prepares students for the workforce. Here, we talk about the best questions to ask when considering enrolling in an HVAC school.
When Can I Enroll?
Pennco Tech offers rolling admissions, meaning students can enroll at any time and begin classes when the next course term starts. Upon acceptance, students are consistently updated on when the next class is set to start and what they must do to prepare.
What Skills Can I Learn in the Program?
Throughout our program, students learn essential skills that they can bring with them into their HVAC careers, including:
- Repair of air conditioning systems
- Maintenance of heating systems, such as boilers, electric heat, furnaces, and gas units
- Safety regulations and practices
- Tools and technologies used in the field
- Diagnosis and troubleshooting of HVAC systems
- Knowledge of different HVAC technologies, such as heat pumps, solar equipment, and hydronic systems
- Mechanical codes
In addition, HVAC technicians must have experience with electrical systems and wiring. By the end of the course, students should know how to repair electrical wiring and controls and be familiar with techniques such as brazing and soldering.
Do You Have Flexible Class Schedules?
We understand how busy life can be for those already in the workforce or have families. That’s why Pennco Tech offers flexible class scheduling for students. Our HVAC&R program provides both day and evening courses. That makes it easy for students to continue their daily responsibilities while furthering their education.
Is There an Online Component to the Program?
It’s essential to have hands-on experience to become successful as an HVAC technician. That allows students to become better prepared to enter the workforce after completing their program. Pennco Tech emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience through our HVAC&R program, as more than half of the course consists of firsthand training.
How Much Does It Cost?
Attending a vocational school can be a cost-effective way to receive an education and earn your degree. While traditional two- or four-year schools can become expensive, Pennco Tech offers courses that can help you pursue well-paying jobs without the costly tuition expenses of traditional colleges. This way, you can start earning a salary and gaining experience in the field even quicker.
We also offer financial aid opportunities for qualifying students, as well as student loan counseling. That makes Pennco Tech a great option for students looking to change their career path or find an alternative to university after high school.
Please note: Financial aid is available only to those students who qualify.
What Certifications Can I Earn?
To become a certified HVAC technician, students must have their HVAC certification and EPA 608 certification. Upon completion of our HVAC&R program, students earn their HVAC certification. However, to receive your EPA 608 certification, you must pass the Section 608 (EPA) exam. Part of our program is dedicated to assisting students in preparing for this exam. Once students take and pass the test, they can earn their EPA certification and begin working as professional HVAC technicians. Students also have the option of receiving a TracPipe certification.
Does the School Help With Job Placement?
Pennco Tech is here for its students, even after they graduate. Students and graduates have access to our career services department, which assists students in finding a job during and after they complete their courses. Our team of professionals can help you with essential job-searching skills, like making connections with potential employers, résumé writing, and job interview prep. We also host on site career fairs for every program on campus, where we bring employers in to meet with you.
Can an Entry-Level Job Lead to Other Careers?
After earning certification as an HVAC technician, there are many paths you can take to advance your career. For example, you can specialize in solar technologies by gaining additional certifications. Graduates can also work with more specified HVAC systems, like air conditioners or refrigeration systems. Graduating with an HVAC certification can also lead to HVAC sales career opportunities
Apply to Pennco Tech Today
Students can apply to our HVAC&R program at any time and begin taking courses as soon as the next term begins. We make it easy for students to take control of their education, allowing them to advance in their careers and continue being successful. We have campuses in Blackwood, NJ, and Bristol, PA. To learn more about our HVAC school and other courses we offer, contact us at Pennco Tech today.