HVAC-R (Climate Control), Certificate

Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration, as a technical discipline, has made its transition to the “high-tech” field. Modern environmental control equipment use advanced controls involving pneumatic, electro-mechanical and direct digital control technologies. Today, common HVAC-R applications include the use of computers and computer network interfaces to facilitate building/space climate control and monitoring. Presently, manpower shortages exist for qualified personnel (see http://www. mepatwork.com for additional information). Men and women wanting to enter this field must understand these advanced technologies, their controls and communications networks if they are to be successful in this changing field.

Career Outlook

A wide variety of employment possibilities exist for those individuals who have training in the Climate Control field. HVAC-R Installers and Service Technicians are always needed to support companies involved in product sales and service. These skilled tradespersons work in residential, commercial and industrial settings keeping related equipment operational throughout the climate seasons. refrigeration journeymen work in commercial and industrial settings providing support for the food industry. Air balance specialists work with environmental engineers to test and adjust newly installed and existing HVAC-R systems. Systems integrators unify various sub-systems involving the HVAC-R and fire control-life safety technologies under one common control.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learners will be able to:

1. Comprehend relevant electrical symbols and abbreviations within projects.
2. Apply basic knowledge of operating systems, networking, and computer hardware in projects.
3. Illustrate proficiency in design concepts, orthographic projection, dimensioning practices, and blueprint reading through hands on projects and assignments.
4. Apply physics of fluids, components, troubleshooting and design applications for hydraulic and pneumatic systems.