HVAC Technician vs HVAC Engineer Career Paths

As long as we continue experiencing drastic temperature and climate changes in our environment, there will always be a need for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. However, not all HVAC systems work properly all the time, or when you need them the most. That’s why HVAC technicians and engineers are in high demand. Most HVAC jobs require a certification from a vocational school to be able to break into this field, which is where UEI College can help.

THE SKILLS NEEDED TO BE A HVAC TECHNICIAN

An HVAC technician is generally responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing air conditioning, heating, and sometimes refrigeration issues. In order to become a successful HVAC technician, one must be knowledgeable in equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, quality control analysis, and comfortable controlling HVAC systems or equipment. If you like solving practical, hands-on problems and following set procedures that lead to predictable outcomes, then becoming an HVAC technician may be the job for you. 

THE SKILLS NEEDED TO BE A HVAC ENGINEER

Like an HVAC technician, an HVAC engineer also has to be a problem-solver. Their jobs are similar, but they often work side-by-side rather than being in competition with each other. While an HVAC technician is trained to carry though specific tasks, a HVAC engineer develops the machinery, invents new technology, and designs new products. Generally, an HVAC engineer needs to have all of the skills that a HVAC technician does, but with a more extensive knowledge of math, software systems, and physics. An engineer job usually requires more education and experience than a technician. Becoming an HVAC technician is a good building block to working your way up to an engineer.

CAREER TRAINING FOR HVAC TECHNICIANS

With classes offered day and night, UEI College’s Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Program gives you the training you need and provides knowledge in installation, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and the basic design of the world’s most common HVAC systems. Students will learn from industry professionals and practice hands-on lab simulations to gain the experience needed for an entry-level position in the HVAC industry.