HVAC Technician Schools in Louisiana

Louisiana is an excellent location to work as an HVAC technician. Not only is the demand for these professionals very high in the city and the career outlook very positive, but the state also makes it easy for interested individuals to start their careers without stringent requirements.

Of course, candidates must still follow the general process expected of them before carrying out their duties at the best possible level and facilitating career opportunities.

The article below shows the compulsory requirements to become an HVAC technician in Louisiana and the optional steps that can help facilitate significant career chances.

We also list the best programs for robust education and examine the possible annual average salary brackets candidates can fall into at certain career points.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Louisiana

In Louisiana, HVAC technicians usually begin their careers through the following approach:

Fundamental Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is the starting point for HVAC education in Louisiana. Potential employers often ask for it, and training programs prefer students with some form of high school education. Candidates must also be at least 18 years old.

Attending a Training Program

Attending a training program is compulsory for prospective HVAC technicians in Louisiana. Students must complete a diploma or certificate program, which typically takes around 1 year, or earn a 2-year associate degree at a community college or vocational institution.

Some training programs may offer convenience by allowing students to enroll in a hybrid arrangement. This way, they can complete a certain part of the program online and in person.

Formal Apprenticeship

After completing academic education, students may apply for admission into a formal apprenticeship program. Local unions and trade organizations offer such programs in Louisiana.

One main reason is that candidates can practice the topics they learned in an academic program and understand what it is like to carry out HVAC duties in a work environment.

From here, candidates may proceed to fulfill the licensing requirements below and officially start their careers.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become an electrician in Louisiana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In Louisiana, HVAC technicians are expected to have a state license to carry out projects valuing more than $10,000 in labor and materials costs. However, for those who will not be carrying out projects up to this value or those who will be working under contractors, there is no need to have a state license.

Candidates for a contractor license must go through the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSBC). To qualify, they must have met the abovementioned requirements and completed the commercial license application form.

They will then have to provide their financial statement affidavit, including proof that they have a minimum net worth of $10,000 and both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Finally, candidates must pass business law and trade exams. Licenses are available in various categories and specialty classifications, including industrial pipework, ventilation and ductwork, and plumbing.

Top HVAC Technician Schools in Louisiana

The programs below offer an excellent education for aspiring HVAC techs in Louisiana.

Apprenticeship Options

Apprenticeship programs are great for robust HVAC training in Louisiana. Several options include the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 60 in New Orleans, the Local 198 program, and the Plumbers, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association of Louisiana apprenticeship programs.

Explore HVAC technician schools in Louisiana by City:

• HVAC technician schools in New Orleans

Salary & Career Outlook

Naturally, an HVAC technician’s salary in Louisiana will depend on several factors, such as how long they’ve been on the job and what reputation they have built for themselves during that time. Their specialty area and capacity for employment will also impact these numbers.

According to a survey of HVAC technicians in a state, those among the highest earners will make around $33,717 or more, while those around the lowest earners still make $33,717 in annual average salary. However, the most common category of HVAC technicians in the state is the ones who make it to be among the median earners, who manage an annual average salary of $53,328.

Another factor that can impact the job market is location. Currently, Covington and New Orleans have the highest number of HVAC technicians, with annual average salaries of $79,382 and $58,932, respectively.

Those who work in Metairie are also worth mentioning, thanks to their annual average salary of $55,789.