Top HVAC Training Schools in Virginia

If you are interested about a career in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry, Virginia offers accredited training programs in all localities throughout the state. Vocational and technical schools typically run day programs for those currently enrolled in secondary education, as well as adult evening classes for post-secondary students. Community colleges also provide HVAC coursework leading to certification and diplomas in this field.

For choosing secondary vocational schools offering adult education HVAC programs, look for regional and national accreditation from:

• The Virgina Department of Education
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI).
• Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) for online courses.

For post-secondary training schools and community colleges, choose those accredited by the State Board of Community Colleges, HVAC Excellence or the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating Refrigeration Accreditation(PAHRA) and that have approval from the VA Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).

How to Get Certified in Virginia

Virginia requires mandatory certification that leads to licensing for all HVAC workers by the DPOR. Three certification levels are possible: Journeyman, master, and contractor. Candidates must also pass licensure exams.

• Journeyman certification is most often obtained by a combination of documented practical work experience combined with coursework from a vocational program.
• Master certification requires working for one year as a journeyman or having 10 years of practical experience in the field with verified affidavits from workplace observers.
• To become a licensed contractor in the HVAC field, you must possess a master certification license or work for 10 years and have verified affidavits from co-workers and supervisors.

Salaries for HVAC Technician Jobs in Virginia

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2012, the national average for entry level HVAC earnings was $43,640 annually. The job outlook for growth in this field between 2012-2022 is faster than average at 21%. In Virginia, the average annual salary for 2013 was $48,000 for all posted HVAC positions.

HVAC Training and HVAC Schools in Virginia

Virginia has a number of choices for education in HVAC training. Depending on the type of certification program you are completing, coursework will typically last from 6 months to 2 years. For adult evening vocational programs, check with your local school district. For some top community college offerings from around the state, check out these programs:

• Northern Virginia Community College: Accredited Associates Degree Program in HVAC
• Tidewater Community College: Accredited Certificate in HAC, HACR, HVAC, or HVACR programs
• Blue Ridge Community College: Accredited Associates Degree Program in HVAC
• Piedmont Virginia Community College: Accredited Associates Degree Program in HVAC
• Southwest Virginia Community College: Accredited Certificate in HVAC program

Bureau of Labor Statistics HVAC Info
HVAC Salaries by State
VA HVAC Licensing