As of July 2010, there are two schools in Austin, Texas, that offer training programs in HVAC technology. Austin Community College offers both a one-year certificate and a two-year associate in applied science degree in air conditioning and refrigeration. Capitol City Trade and Technical School also offers an air conditioning, heating, refrigeration and heat pumps certificate program.
Training in HVAC technology in Austin combines both the foundational theory and hands-on application of technological principles. Course topics include the basics of electricity, refrigerant physics, temperature and pressure, air-conditioning principles, troubleshooting for repair, national and local mechanical codes, and heat pumps and system design in residential, commercial and industrial environments. Austin Community College also offers a professional internship opportunity, and Capitol City Trade and Technical School provides job placement services following graduation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the need for well-trained HVAC technicians will grow by 28 percent from 2008 to 2018. The average hourly wage of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers is $19.08.