HVAC R Programs in Greeley, Colorado
Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Greeley, Colorado
Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Greeley
Greeley, Colorado, located in Weld County, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and growing economy. As a hub for agriculture and industry, Greeley offers numerous opportunities for HVAC-R technicians. The average salary for an HVAC technician in Colorado is approximately $54,690 per year, with a projected job growth of 13% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
HVAC-R Training Programs in Greeley, Colorado
If you are considering a career as an HVAC-R technician in Greeley, there are several local schools offering comprehensive training programs:
- Aims Community College
- Location: Greeley, CO
- Program: The HVAC-R program at Aims Community College provides hands-on training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The curriculum includes courses in system design, installation, maintenance, and repair.
- Aims Community College HVAC Program
- Front Range Community College
- Location: Fort Collins, CO (approximately 30 miles from Greeley)
- Program: Front Range Community College offers an HVAC-R program that covers the fundamentals of HVAC systems, including electrical systems, refrigeration, and heating technologies.
- Front Range Community College HVAC Program
- Red Rocks Community College
- Location: Lakewood, CO (approximately 70 miles from Greeley)
- Program: Red Rocks Community College provides a comprehensive HVAC-R program with courses in system diagnostics, energy efficiency, and advanced refrigeration.
- Red Rocks Community College HVAC Program
Typical Program Curriculum
HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to take courses in:
- Basic Electricity and Electrical Systems
- Refrigeration Principles
- Heating Systems
- Air Conditioning Systems
- System Design and Installation
- Maintenance and Repair Techniques
Programs usually range from 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you are pursuing a certificate or an associate degree. Specializations may include commercial refrigeration, residential HVAC systems, or energy management.
HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Greeley
Greeley is home to several major HVAC-R companies and potential employers:
- IMS Heating & Air, Inc.
- Location: Loveland, CO (approximately 20 miles from Greeley)
- Description: IMS Heating & Air provides comprehensive HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair for residential and commercial clients.
- IMS Heating & Air Employment Opportunities
- Northern Colorado Air, Inc.
- Location: Fort Collins, CO (approximately 30 miles from Greeley)
- Description: Northern Colorado Air offers HVAC-R services with a focus on energy-efficient solutions and customer satisfaction.
- Northern Colorado Air Employment Opportunities
- Mountain Air Mechanical
- Location: Longmont, CO (approximately 40 miles from Greeley)
- Description: Mountain Air Mechanical specializes in HVAC-R services for both residential and commercial properties, emphasizing quality workmanship and reliability.
- Mountain Air Mechanical Employment Opportunities
HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Colorado
To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Greeley, CO, you’ll need to meet the requirements at the federal, state, and local levels. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
Federal Requirements
- EPA 608 Certification: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires technicians to be certified in the handling of refrigerants. You can obtain this certification through organizations like the Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Certification Board (ACHR) or the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES).
- OSHA Certification: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends, but does not require, certification in construction and general industry standards. You can obtain OSHA certification through OSHA Training Institute Education Centers.
State Requirements
- Colorado HVAC License: The Colorado Office of Licensing (OOL) requires HVAC technicians to be licensed. You’ll need to pass a written exam and meet the experience requirements. Colorado Office of Licensing.
- Colorado State Certification: The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment requires certification in HVAC, refrigeration, and electrical trades. You can obtain certification through the Colorado State Certification Board.
Local Requirements
- City of Greeley Business License: The City of Greeley requires a business license to operate as an HVAC-R technician. You can obtain a license through the City of Greeley Business License Office.
- Weld County Business License: Weld County may require a business license, depending on your location. You can obtain a license through the Weld County Business License Office.
Certifications and Training
- NATE Certification: The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is a nationally recognized certification for HVAC-R technicians. You can obtain NATE certification through NATE.
- R-410A Certification: The R-410A certification is required for technicians working with R-410A refrigerant. You can obtain this certification through organizations like RSES.
- HVAC-R Training: You’ll need to complete a training program approved by the Colorado Office of Licensing. Programs are available at institutions like Aims Community College or Front Range Community College.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Greeley, Colorado, is a promising and rewarding path. With a variety of training programs and a growing job market, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and start your journey toward a fulfilling career in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry.