Starting a career as an HVAC technician in Colorado can be thrilling and fulfilling, leading to an impressive yearly income. Among other things, an HVAC technician in the state must install, repair, upgrade, and maintain an array of air quality systems.
Before a candidate can get started on the job, they must have gone through several steps, including fulfilling some fundamental educational requirements and passing through a worthwhile training program.
There are more to these steps, of course, and it can all get overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the process from the start. This is exactly why we have provided a detailed guide below-containing everything interested individuals need to know to start their journeys to becoming HVAC technicians in Colorado and have the best time.
How to Become an HVAC Technician in Colorado
Below are the steps required to become an HVAC technician in Colorado.
Step One: Basic Prerequisites
The basic prerequisites to become an HVAC technician in Colorado include a high school diploma or GED, proficiency in basic mathematics, and being at least 18 years old when graduating from a technical training program.
Step Two: Technical Training
There are two destinations in Colorado where you can acquire technical training as an aspiring HVAC technician. They include attending apprenticeship programs or academic programs.
HVAC Apprenticeships
HVAC apprenticeships are typically organized by trade unions and professional HVAC organizations. Some would consider them the best form of HVAC training, as they emphasize hands-on training and real-world experience.
They are also comprehensive and can take 2 - 4 years to complete.
Among other things, those who enroll in apprenticeship programs may enjoy mentorship, opportunity to earn some income, and job placement assistance.
Academic HVAC training
Trade schools and community colleges in Colorado also offer students the opportunity to acquire HVAC technology training in a structured classroom environment. These programs may be organized as certificate programs, associate degree programs, or even bachelor’s programs.
They offer enough flexibility and hands-on training that candidates can complement with possible “on-the-job” training before seeking employment.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
The state of Colorado does not have mandatory licensing requirements for HVAC technicians. It falls upon cities and counties within the state to issue possible licenses, and as such, candidates are always advised to consult their local oversight bodies for updated requirements.
Additionally, HVAC technicians in the state who are involved in any form of electrical or plumbing job must obtain a state-level electrical/plumbing license from the Colorado State Plumbing Board or the Colorado Electrical Board — both of which fall under the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
Lastly, professionals in the state handling refrigerants must receive certification from the US Environmental Protection Agency and OSHA.
Top HVAC Technician Schools in Colorado
Below are some high-quality HVAC technology training programs in Colorado.
Pikes Peak Community College
Colorado Springs, CO Online + Campus
Future HVAC technicians in Colorado would do well to consider the array of programs offered by Pikes Peak Community College.
Tuition
$164 - $673 per CreditContact
(719) 502-2000
communications@pikespeak.edu
Red Rocks Community College
Denver, CO Online + Campus
Red Rocks Community College offers an associate of applied science program in HVAC technology with 62 credits. Candidates looking for certificate options may also consider any of the 8 certificates.
Tuition
$4,471 - $16,135 per YearContact
(303) 914-6600
admissions@rrcc.edu
Front Range Community College
Denver, CO Online + Campus
Lastly, many HVAC technicians in Colorado began their successful careers thanks to the Associate of Applied Science program at Front Range Community College.
Tuition
$164 - $673 per CreditContact
(303) 678-3722
lcce@frontrange.edu
Explore HVAC Technician Schools in Colorado by City:
Salary & Career Outlook
An HVAC technician in Colorado may fall among the state’s middle, bottom, or top earners, depending on factors such as experience and location. Those who fall among the middle earners take home an annual average salary of $62,431, while those who fall among the top 10% take home an annual average salary of $93,183.
Those who fall among the bottom 10% will still earn around $41,828 in average yearly salary.
Along with experience and location, place of employment and credentials also play a role in influencing yearly earnings as an HVAC technician in Colorado.
Concerning location, however, the top destinations in the state with the highest salary for these professionals include Henderson, with an annual average salary of $75,051; Rifle, with an annual average salary of $73,663; and Denver, with an annual average salary of $65,519.
Candidates may also consider Lakewood, with an annual average salary of $65,117; and Longmont, with an annual average salary of $64,942.