What Education Do You Need to Become an HVACR Technician? | MIAT

Are you interested in training to become an HVACR technician? To become an HVACR technician in Michigan, you must not only go through training but pass a state licensing exam. These exams certify you and give your clients assurance that you are the right expert for the job. It takes time to learn all the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the exam, and you will have to complete an apprenticeship as well. Through classroom instruction and real field experience, you will learn how to work with various types of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment in residences and commercial buildings.

What Education Do You Need to Become an HVACR Technician?

HVACR, also widely known as HVAC, is a diverse field of study that includes the installation, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. You will learn about the theories, processes and techniques used by real professionals through an accredited vocational school.

HVACR vocational schools require students to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. You can begin studying as soon as you meet these requirements. Attending full-time, you can complete your diploma program in less than a year. On average, a full-time HVACR program takes nine months to finish.

After you complete your education, you will begin an apprenticeship and prepare to take the state licensing exam.

Do I Need a License to Be an HVACR Technician?

Yes. Most states, including Michigan, require technicians to hold a valid HVACR license. 

To qualify for a Michigan HVAC license, you will have to complete at least three years of HVAC work under the supervision of a licensed HVAC technician. There are several options for licenses in Michigan, including HVAC, refrigeration and ductwork. You can apply for apprenticeships on your own, but it’s best to prepare yourself by attending an HVACR trade school for your education.

What are the Benefits of Attending an HVACR Technician Program?

There are many benefits to attending an HVACR Technician program like the one at MIAT.* From a quick start toward a new career and experienced faculty to career development and more. These benefits are a great reason to learn more about becoming an HVACR technician.

Benefit #1: A Quick Start

Have responsibilities that stop you from attending a 4-year college? If you have nine months to attend a vocational school full-time, you can start toward a new career as an HVACR technician. You will learn about heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration to prepare you to work in the HVACR industry. Whether you work for an HVACR franchise or start a business yourself, you have many different options for your career path.

Benefit #2: Experienced Faculty

At MIAT College of Technology, we hire industry experienced faculty to guide you through the complete curriculum in HVACR. Our faculty offers one-on-one attention and allows you to ask questions, so you don’t fall behind. Be more than a face in the crowd in a large lecture hall, enjoy the small classes and individual attention you get at a vocational school.

Benefit #3: Like-Minded Classmates

Nothing is better than working in groups with like-minded people. You will meet classmates of different HVACR skill levels and have an opportunity to network once you graduate from vocational school. You will also be able to create study groups that allow you to help one another fill in the gaps of your knowledge and skills around HVACR. Take the time to meet new classmates, you never know when you will need to network with them further on in your career.

Benefit #4: Career Development

In addition to giving you expert instruction from real HVACR technicians, you will also be given plenty of assistance in career development and licensing exam preparation. The vocational school will help you build a resume, prepare for interviews and try to match you with jobs that fit your passion and knowledge.

Benefit #5: Hands-On Experience

One of the best benefits of attending an HVACR technician program is all the hands-on experience you will get fixing, diagnosing, and maintaining real HVACR systems. Whether you are working in an HVACR lab on real equipment or participating in an externship, you will get real-world experience that you can include on your resume for future job opportunities. This experience will also give you confidence that you are ready to hit the ground running.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know what it takes to become an HVACR technician, it is time to learn more about the HVACR Technician program at MIAT College of Technology. If you enjoy working out of the office and have the communication skills and customer service to keep customers happy, then becoming an HVAC technician may be the right career path for you.*

Does an education in HVACR interest you? The HVACR Technician program is nine months in length for full-time students, assuming there’s no interruption in training. The training allows students to focus on their chosen field, graduating faster than it takes to earn a traditional 2- or 4-year college degree or complete a 3-to-5-year apprenticeship.

To learn more about our HVACR program and to explore if MIAT is right for you, fill out the form on this page. Contact us if you are interested in training to become an HVACR technician today.