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Program Description

Students enrolled in the CTECS Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program will obtain instruction and demonstrate skills and knowledge in construction safety, measuring and blueprint reading, calculations of ductwork & heating systems with an emphasis on both heat loss and heat gain heating and cooling calculations. Students are also instructed on Domestic and Commercial Refrigeration systems, Gas, Oil Heating.

Students’ in the HVAC program receive both on-site and off-campus jobsite learning opportunities simulating real-world applications. Students are trained in the installation and repair of refrigeration, heating, and cooling mechanical systems in both residential homes and commercial buildings. The systems that control indoor climate are constantly evolving to reflect technological advancements and environmental concerns.

In addition, students enrolled in the HVAC program will also obtain instruction in energy efficiency, environmental, renewable energy, as well as energy conservation practices.

A field that anticipates a high demand for skilled mechanics and technicians, the HVAC program ensures that students are skilled in the operation, design, installation, troubleshooting and repair of air conditioning, refrigeration, heating and ventilation equipment.

The demand for HVAC technicians is expected to outpace the supply of workers trained in this demanding but rewarding field. This career area is considered to be “In-Demand, Job Growth” Category as per CT-DOL. HVAC is a licensed trade that requires not only highly technical knowledge and skill, but also a thorough understanding of the Connecticut adopted ICC Mechanical Codes.

Students receive up to 720 hours of instruction upon successful completion of the program. Students may be able to receive 1500 hours towards a career affiliated apprenticeship upon graduation* (*Upon Employer Acceptance).

Students are eligible to participate in Work-Based Learning (WBL) in grades 11 & 12. This program allows companies to hire students during the school day to work as a pre-apprentice in the plumbing & heating industry. Students will receive CT-DOL approved credit for their work experience which is an important pipeline for getting our students into industry.

For more information about our programs please view CTECS Program of Studies.

  • Identify, describe and apply health and safety regulations that apply to specific tasks and Jobsite Safety. Students must complete a safety credential program. Practice Shop and Jobsite Safety;
  • Identify, describe and apply Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other environmental protection regulations that apply to specific tasks and jobs in the specific occupational area;
  • Understand career opportunities in the HVAC industry;
  • Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers’ recommendations to ascertain the configuration of heating or cooling equipment components and to ensure the proper installation of components;
  • Understand and apply joining methods for piping and sheet metal materials;
  • Demonstrate safety in refrigerant handling following Environment Protection Agency (EPA) regulations;
  • Describe, demonstrate and troubleshoot wiring of HVAC&R controls, motors, and circuits;
  • Design, install and troubleshoot refrigeration components and systems;
  • Design, install and service of Heating & Cooling Equipment and Systems (Oil, Gas, & Heat pump);
  • Describe and demonstrate ventilation applications and forced-air duct systems;
  • Perform blueprint reading, sketching and estimating according to code;
  • Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints;
  • Demonstrate hand/power tool uses and operations;
  • Install pipe systems to support alternative energy-fueled systems, such as geothermal and hybrid systems;
  • Prepare cost estimates for clients; and
  • Career Exploration and Navigation
  • Building Science Principles Certificate
  • CSST Certification
  • CT-DOL – Apprenticeship Related Instruction 720 Hours
  • EPA Certification – Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling
  • Fall Protection Certification • Lockout Tagout Certification
  • NATE-NOCTI HVACR – Service and Repair Student Exam
  • OSHA – 10, 30 Certification – CFR – 1926
  • Roth Oil Tank Certification
  • Ladder Safety Certification
  • Apprentice Refrigeration Technician
  • Apprentice Sheet Metal Technician
  • Apprentice HVAC Technician
  • S-2 Heating and Cooling Mechanic
  • S-4 Heating Mechanic
  • S-6 Limited Heating Mechanic
  • S-8 Limited Heating Mechanic
  • S-10 Limited Heating and Cooling Mechanic
  • B-2/B-4 Oil Burner Servicer/Installer
  • D-2 Warm Air Heating and Cooling Mechanic
  • D-4 Refrigeration Mechanic
  • SM-2 Sheet Metal Mechanic
  • Boilermaker
  • Building Superintendent
  • Self-Employed HVAC Contractor
  • Engineering (Plant or Mechanical)
  • Energy Management
  • Mechanical Engineer