HVAC systems are present in almost every aspect of our lives. From the homes we live in, the stores we shop in, the offices we work in, and even the airports we travel through, every environment needs a system to improve its air quality.
And that is precisely one of the reasons why HVAC technicians enjoy the luxury of the constant stream of demand for their expertise.
If you want to join the hard-working team of professionals satisfying this demand in Ohio, then the guide below is for you.
Here, we look at everything you need to know to start a successful career as an HVAC technician in Ohio, including the educational requirements, possible training programs, and the potential salary to expect.
How to Become an HVAC Technician in Ohio
Basic Requirements
As with most states, Ohio HVAC technicians must be at least 18 years old before they can apply to training programs and for their licenses.
It is also a common requirement among these institutions to ask the candidates to have their high school diploma or GED ready along with official transcripts.
Training Options
To become an HVAC technician in Ohio, interested applicants usually have two options regarding their training. The first is to enroll in a formal training program, while the second is to consider attending an apprenticeship program.
Combining both approaches is possible by completing a formal training program and then spending a few months in an apprenticeship program (instead of the standard four years).
Formal Programs
Formal training programs offer comprehensive classroom and hands-on training for aspiring technicians in the state. These programs leverage their array of experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities to prepare students for their duties once they secure employment and for the certification and licensing exams.
Apprenticeship Programs
Apprenticeship programs, just like formal training programs, combine some classroom training with hands-on training. But unlike traditional training programs, apprenticeship training programs focus heavily on real-world training under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Many prefer apprenticeship programs thanks to the emphasis on hands-on training and the mentorship they tend to get from the instructors and union.
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Top HVAC Technician Schools in Ohio
Aspiring HVAC technicians in Ohio who choose to go with formal training programs will be glad to know that there is no shortage of options in the area.
Below are some of the most prominent schools to consider:
1. Cuyahoga Valley Career Center
Another extraordinary institution for rigorous HVAC technology training is Cuyahoga Valley Career Center. The Center teaches students how to carry out the fundamentals of HVAC technician duties, including installing, maintaining, repairing, and upgrading heating and air conditioning systems.
Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, the program focuses on proper technique as much as possible. It seeks to produce candidates who cannot only carry out their jobs at a high level but also do it properly and efficiently.
2. Fortis College
The Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education accredits Fortis College. It offers a beautiful HVAC technology program focusing on classroom training and hands-on laboratory sessions.
3. Southern Ohio Technical College
It is almost only possible to list Ohio’s best HVAC technology programs by mentioning Southern Ohio Technical College. Along with providing high-quality HVAC training, the school also helps with job placement.
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Licensure and Certification Requirements
HVAC technicians in Ohio are expected to be licensed before they can practice. To do so, they must complete an application and provide proof of education to the Ohio State Board.
The board also asks applicants to apply to have acquired work experience from an apprenticeship program or completed formal training from an accredited training program.
As expected, licensure comes with an application fee and lasts two years, after which it must be renewed.
As for certification, HVAC technicians in Ohio usually go with the NATE certifications and an EPA certification for those who will have to work with refrigerants and OSHA certification to demonstrate competence regarding safety requirements.
Salary and Job Outlook
An average HVAC technician in Ohio tends to earn a salary of around $51,570 every year. This figure is on par with the national average.
It is possible to go beyond or below this figure, depending on factors such as experience, location, credentials, type of employee and establishment, and so on. Those who fall into the top 10% of earners earn around $80,390 in annual average salary, while those who fall into the bottom 10% earn an average yearly salary of $33,079.
Canton ($60,133), Toledo ($59,174), and Cleveland ($57,707) are the highest-paying cities in Ohio for HVAC technicians, followed by Cincinnati ($55,087) and Columbus ($53,956).
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