How to Become an HVAC Technician in Alabama

Embarking on the path to becoming an HVAC technician in Alabama offers a rewarding career opportunity.

Your role will maintain year-round comfort for homes and businesses alike.

HVAC technicians are unsung heroes, ensuring that indoor environments stay cozy during chilly winters and refreshingly cool in scorching summers.

What Does an HVAC Technician Do?

HVAC technicians specialize in the intricate world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

The mission of the HVAC career is to guarantee indoor comfort and maintain optimal air quality.

HVAC techs install, maintain, and repair HVAC equipment, diagnose system malfunctions, and optimize energy efficiency.

Their expertise contributes to residential and commercial spaces, ensuring people can work, live, and relax comfortably.

It’s a role that directly impacts the quality of life for many, making HVAC technicians indispensable professionals.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Alabama – Step by Step

Becoming an HVAC technician in Alabama opens the door to a fulfilling and essential career.

These professionals play a vital role in maintaining year-round comfort in homes and businesses.

This step-by-step guide will outline the specific requirements and processes tailored to Alabama, from education to licensure.

Step 1: Meet Educational Prerequisites

Begin your path by meeting the educational prerequisites.

This typically involves obtaining a high school diploma or GED, providing the foundation for your future HVAC career.

Step 2: Enroll in Accredited HVAC Programs

Choose reputable technical schools or colleges in Alabama that offer HVAC programs accredited by recognized institutions.

Look for programs that include HVAC-R Certificates and Associate degree options.

Step 3: Undergo Comprehensive Training

Gain invaluable hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships offered by HVAC companies or educational institutions in Alabama.

This immersive training will sharpen your skills and prepare you for the HVAC field.

Step 4: Obtain Professional Certification

Upon completing your chosen HVAC program, consider pursuing industry-recognized certifications.

These credentials not only boost your qualifications but also showcase your expertise.

Step 5: Apply for an Alabama State HVAC License

Compliance with Alabama’s state regulations is essential.

HVAC technicians in Alabama often need to obtain a state license to practice legally.

This typically involves fulfilling experience requirements, passing an HVAC trade exam, and submitting a license application.

Step 6: Explore Additional Certifications

To further elevate your standing in the HVAC industry, explore additional certifications that align with your career goals and interests.

These certifications can provide specialized expertise and make you even more valuable.

Alabama HVAC Certification and License Requirements

Getting certified and licensed as an HVAC professional in Alabama can be a puzzle because the rules vary depending on your city or county rather than having a statewide standard.

To simplify things, Alabama has the Trades Certification Program, which includes specialized exams for different areas of expertise.

To be an HVAC Journeyman, you’ll need to gain experience as an apprentice for a specific period.

HVAC Master Technicians usually have to prove both apprentice and journeyman experience.

For HVAC contractors, it’s common to require a Certificate of Qualification, appropriate insurance, and substantial relevant work experience.

These location-specific regulations are in place to ensure that HVAC professionals in Alabama meet the particular standards set by their local jurisdictions.

HVAC Schools in Alabama

Explore the following HVAC programs in Alabama to kickstart your journey.

Each program offers unique insights into the field, with varying durations, costs, and curricula.

George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville

About The School

George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville is a public community college in Hanceville, Alabama.

It was founded in 1966 as the George C. Wallace State Trade School of Cullman County.

The college currently enrolls approximately 6,000 students and offers over 50 associate degree and certificate programs in academic, health, and technical fields.

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The HVAC program at this school is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

The program offers both a certificate and an associate degree option:

• The certificate program is designed to be completed in two semesters and includes courses such as:
  • Fundamentals of HVAC
  • HVAC Electrical Systems
  • HVAC Refrigeration Systems
  • HVAC Air Distribution
  • HVAC Controls.
• The associate degree program is designed to be completed in four semesters and includes the same courses as the certificate program and additional general education courses.

Both programs provide students with hands-on training in installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems.

Graduates of the program are prepared to work in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial environments.

Contact Information

• Website: wallacestate.edu
• Address: 801 Main St NW, Hanceville, AL 3507
• Phone Number: (256) 352-8000

J F Drake State Technical College

About the School

J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College, located in Huntsville, Alabama, has a rich history.

It was founded in 1961 under the name Huntsville State Vocational Technical College.

The college holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers associate degrees, certificates, and non-credit courses through its 16 programs.

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The JF Drake State Technical College HVAC program emphasizes hands-on training in:

• HVAC system installation
• Maintenance and repair
• Electrical circuits
• Refrigeration
• Heating
• Air conditioning
• Ventilation systems.

Successful completion of the program leads to the award of an Associate in Applied Technology degree.

Contact Information

• Website: drakestate.edu
• Address: 3421 Meridian St N, Huntsville, AL 35811
• Phone Number: (256) 539-8161

John C Calhoun State Community College

About the School

Calhoun Community College, situated in Alabama, USA, is a publicly funded institution.

This college boasts diverse programs spanning Applied Technologies, Business, Health Sciences, and numerous other fields.

Its mission is to create a conducive environment where students can thrive and realize their professional aspirations, facilitating their journey toward career success.

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program at Calhoun Community College focuses on hands-on training and education.

Students learn to work on systems that control temperature, humidity, and air quality in various environments, including homes, schools, hospitals, and office buildings.

The program offers several degree and certificate options, including:

• Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, A.A.S.
• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Short-Term Certificat
• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration/ACR Fundamentals Short-Term Certificat
• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration/Advanced ACR Short-Term Certificat
• ACR – HVAC Building Automation Short-Term Certificate

Contact Information

• Website: calhoun.edu
• Address: 600 Boulevard, Decatur, AL 35601
• Phone Number: (256) 306-2800
  

Lawson State Community College-Birmingham Campus  

About the School

Lawson State Community College is a public, two-year, multi-campus college offering degree and certificate programs.

The college has two campuses located in Bessemer and Birmingham, Alabama.

Information & HVAC Program Summary

Lawson State Community College provides an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program that trains students in installing, servicing, and problem-solving HVACR systems.

This program aims to prepare graduates for commercial and residential service roles within this field.

The instructional journey commences with the basics of refrigeration and electricity and then progresses to more advanced courses tailored to individual preferences.

Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on learning, working with industry-standard equipment while receiving assignments and job sheets for each study phase.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.lawsonstate.edu/
• Address: 3060 Wilson Street SW, Birmingham, AL 35221
• Phone Number: (205) 929-3526

Alabama Power HVAC Training Center

About the School

The center has provided training, professional development, and continuing education to participants from multiple states and countries since 1986.

The facility spans 53,000 square feet and includes an auditorium, five classrooms, a computer laboratory, and seven laboratories.

Some labs available at the center are:

• Heat Pump Lab
• Dual Fuel Heat Pump Lab
• Geothermal/Water Heating Lab
• Mini Split Lab
• Brazing Lab
• Simulator Lab
• Demonstration House
• Duct Fabrication Lab

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The HVAC program equips students with the skills needed for HVACR system installation, servicing, and problem-solving.

Graduates are prepared for commercial and residential service roles.

It starts with foundational training in refrigeration and electricity and progresses to advanced, customized courses.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning using industry-standard equipment, with assignments and job sheets provided for each phase of study.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.alabamapower.com/
• Address: 3711 Industrial Court, Jasper, AL 35501
• Phone Number: 1-800-634-0154

Bevill State Community College

About the School

The college is dedicated to offering diverse educational opportunities, including university parallel and applied technology programs.

With four main campuses and one instructional site, Bevill State serves over one-quarter million people in a seven-county area.

This school provides:

• Seamless academic transfer classes
• High-demand career technical programs
• Rapid training options
• Dual enrollment
• Adult education courses

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program focuses on essential principles and practical knowledge concerning air conditioning and heating, addressing both comfort and environmental aspects.

Graduates of this program acquire skills for planning, installing, operating, and maintaining various heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.

The Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration approved the program for the Alabama Contractor’s License Exam.

Programs include:

• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
• Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Long-Term Certificate (LTC)
• Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Short-Term Certificate (STC)
• Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.bscc.edu
• Address: 1411 Indiana Avenue, Jasper, AL 35501
• Phone Number: 1-800-648-3271

Gadsden State Community College/Valley St Campus

About the School

Gadsden State Community College is a well-established public community college that spans five campuses or educational centers across Calhoun, Cherokee, and Etowah counties.

It has a significant presence in its communities, with a dedicated team of administrators, faculty, and staff.

All are committed to preparing students for direct entry into the workforce or smooth transitions to four-year universities.

Information & HVAC Program Summary

The pathways included at this school are an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree, a Long-Term Certificate (LTC), and a Short-Term Certificate (STC).

Students will delve into air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration fundamentals throughout these programs, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

This coursework prepares them to install, operate, and maintain various HVAC/R equipment.

The program also meets the approval of the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration, setting graduates to obtain their HVAC licenses.

Basics of the HVAC Program:

• Degrees: AAS, LTC, STC
• Core Courses: Principles of Refrigeration, HVACR Service Procedures, Refrigeration Piping Practices, and more
• Focus Areas: Gas and Electric Heating Systems, Commercial Heating Systems, Electrical Components, Troubleshooting, and more
• Hands-On Learning: Emphasis on practical skills and hands-on experience
• Licensing Preparation: The program aligns with Alabama HVAC/R licensing requirements

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.gadsdenstate.edu
• Address: 600 Valley Street, Gadsden, AL 35901
• Phone Number: (256) 549-8600

Salary for HVAC Technicians in Alabama

Are you curious about HVAC technician salaries in Alabama?

Here’s the lowdown as of August 2023: On average, HVAC technicians bring in approximately $45,044 annually.

However, this paycheck can fluctuate, with the lowest at $38,922 and the highest at $53,070.

Remember that various factors, including your workplace, educational background, certifications, and years of experience in the field, can influence your income.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Birmingham	$46,275
Montgomery	$43,971
Mobile	$45,343
Huntsville	$46,888
Tuscaloosa	$45,968
Hoover	$40,485
Dothan	$42,191
Decatur	$59,331
Auburn	$57,898
Gadsen	$48,200

Regional Salary in Alabama

* Salary information based on the May 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, OCC Code 49-9021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, a career as an HVAC technician in Alabama can be highly rewarding.

It is crucial in ensuring indoor comfort and air quality for residential and commercial settings.

You can become a skilled HVAC professional by following our outlined steps, obtaining the required certifications, and considering further training and education.

Your expertise will be invaluable in meeting your community’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the educational prerequisites for HVAC Technicians in Alabama?

To embark on a career as an HVAC technician in Alabama, you generally begin with a high school diploma or GED.

Those seeking specialized knowledge and skills should consider enrolling in accredited HVAC programs provided by well-established technical schools or colleges.

How long does HVAC training typically last in Alabama?

The duration of HVAC training in Alabama can vary depending on the specific program you choose.

Some programs can be from 6 months to four years.

While precise timeframes may differ, prospective students should contact individual educational institutions for precise program duration information.

Is an Alabama state HVAC license mandatory for HVAC Technicians?

Distinct from certain other states, Alabama may not have statewide HVAC licensing prerequisites.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that particular cities and counties within Alabama might impose their licensing requirements.

HVAC professionals in these areas must demonstrate the requisite years of relevant work experience and successfully pass the mandated examinations.

HVAC Technician Info by State