The National Center for Education Statistics recognizes 41 technical institutes, career centers and community colleges that provide HVAC training at 46 campus locations throughout Florida.
Two-year associate's degrees are available at community and junior colleges, such as Miami Dade College, Florida State College and Indian River State College. Vocational and occupational certificates that are typically one year in duration are available at colleges and technical schools, including Pensacola State College, South Florida Community College, Palm Beach State College, Erwin Technical Center, Atlantic Technical Center and Withlacoochee Technical Institute.
HVAC training in Florida combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills development. Coursework typically includes air-conditioning and refrigeration principles, electricity fundamentals and applications, controls and motors, heating systems, safety standards, duct systems, service management, installation and maintenance. A professional internship or practicum course is also often required. Degree programs include additional breadth coursework in the liberal arts and sciences.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook, job prospects for HVAC technicians are excellent. The demand for professional heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow by 28 percent through to 2018. As of the year 2010, the median hourly wage is $19.08.