HVAC Technician Schools in New Mexico

Data from organizations like the Energy Information Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that demand for HVAC technicians capable of installing air conditioning systems will continue to increase nationwide. The same projections will hold in New Mexico, leading to life-changing opportunities for several individuals.

To take advantage of all the benefits of starting a career as an HVAC technician, residents of the state need to understand all the steps involved in the process as comprehensively as possible. The article below allows readers to do this by spelling out the major considerations in a straightforward and easily digestible manner.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in New Mexico

Candidates must follow the steps below to start their HVAC technician careers in New Mexico.

High School Requirements

Prospective HVAC technicians in New Mexico must have a high school diploma or earn a GED. Although this may not necessarily be part of the licensing requirements, it is still key to securing placement into a program.

Completing a Training Program

Regarding placement into a training program, candidates usually enjoy a fast route to start their careers if they choose a certificate program, which may be completed in around 6 or 10 months. However, many professionals will prefer to attend a community college and apply for a 2-year associate degree program.

Although less common, starting a career as an HVAC technician with a four-year bachelor’s degree program is possible.

Some advantages of pursuing an associate degree at a college include the opportunity to receive a well-rounded education, learn skills in other construction-related areas, and, thanks to the gravity of the degree, possibly have career chances.

Employment and Career Growth

A well-trained HVAC technician can secure employment and start to ply their trade legally. However, the field continues to grow, and professionals are expected to keep growing. This involves participating in seminars, workshops, and other continuing education arrangements.

Explore other trades with similar paths:

• Become an electrician in New Mexico

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division, issues an HVAC technician license in the state of New Mexico. Depending on their specialty and experience level, candidates can pursue certification in various categories.

The first category is the journeyman certificate of competence for those just starting. This category also has various subcategories depending on specialization. They include the Journeyman Gas Fitter license, Journeyman Refrigeration license, Journeyman Plumber license, Journeyman Boiler Operator license—low Pressure, and Journeyman Boiler Operator license—high Pressure.

A journeyman certificate of competency in the state lasts for 3 years, after which it must be renewed by submitting an application and paying a $75 fee.

The other licensing category is the HVAC contractor license for candidates accepting large contracts in the state.

Top HVAC Technician Schools in New Mexico

The following programs have a strong record of producing successful HVAC technicians in New Mexico.

Explore HVAC technician schools in New Mexico by City:

• HVAC technician schools in Albuquerque

Salary & Career Outlook

An average HVAC technician in New Mexico takes home an annual salary of around $51,828. By average, we mean professionals in this field in the median earning category.

At the upper end of the salary spectrum, the top 10% earn an annual average salary of $83,268, while at the lower end are the bottom 10% earners, whose annual average salary is around $32,259.

Naturally, experience and location influence where a candidate falls in these salary categories. However, other considerations, such as professional credentials and specialty areas, along with the specific kind of employer, will also matter greatly.

Analyzing the most profitable cities for HVAC technicians in New Mexico, we find that those who work in Hobbs manage an annual average salary of $64,887—good enough for first place in the state—while those who work in Carlsbad are second with an annual average salary of $56,990.

Albuquerque is the third highest-paying city for HVAC technicians in New Mexico, with an annual average salary of $54,953.