HVAC R Programs in Concord, North Carolina

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Concord, North Carolina

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Concord

Concord, North Carolina, is a thriving city known for its rich history, vibrant community, and growing economy. As the home of the Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord Mills, one of the largest shopping centers in the state, Concord offers a dynamic environment for aspiring HVAC-R technicians. The demand for skilled HVAC-R professionals is on the rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 4% growth in HVAC-R jobs through 2029. The average salary for HVAC-R technicians in North Carolina is approximately $48,730 per year. For more detailed job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Concord, North Carolina

Concord offers several reputable HVAC-R training programs to help you kickstart your career. Here are three local schools offering HVAC-R programs:

  1. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
    • Location: Salisbury, NC (approximately 20 miles from Concord)
    • Program: The HVAC-R program at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College provides comprehensive training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
    • Rowan-Cabarrus Community College HVAC-R Program
  2. Central Piedmont Community College
    • Location: Charlotte, NC (approximately 25 miles from Concord)
    • Program: Central Piedmont Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in HVAC-R. The program covers system design, installation, maintenance, and repair.
    • Central Piedmont Community College HVAC-R Program
  3. Stanly Community College
    • Location: Albemarle, NC (approximately 30 miles from Concord)
    • Program: Stanly Community College provides a diploma in HVAC-R technology, focusing on the principles and practices of HVAC-R systems.
    • Stanly Community College HVAC-R Program

Typical Program Curriculum

HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to cover topics such as:

  • Basic Electricity and Electronics: Understanding electrical circuits and components.
  • Refrigeration Principles: Learning the fundamentals of refrigeration cycles and systems.
  • Heating Systems: Studying various heating systems, including gas, oil, and electric.
  • Air Conditioning Systems: Exploring the principles and components of air conditioning systems.
  • System Design and Installation: Gaining skills in designing and installing HVAC-R systems.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Learning techniques for troubleshooting and repairing HVAC-R equipment.

Programs usually last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the level of certification or degree pursued. Some programs also offer specializations in areas like commercial HVAC-R systems or green technologies.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Concord

Concord is home to several prominent HVAC-R companies that offer excellent employment opportunities for certified technicians. Here are a few notable employers:

  1. Morris-Jenkins
    • Location: Charlotte, NC (University City neighborhood)
    • Description: Morris-Jenkins is a leading HVAC-R service provider in the Charlotte metropolitan area, offering installation, maintenance, and repair services.
    • Morris-Jenkins Employment Opportunities
  2. Piedmont Service Group
  3. Brothers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in North Carolina

To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Concord, NC, you need to meet the requirements at the state and federal levels. Here are the relevant certifications, licenses, and requirements:

State Requirements

North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors

  • HVAC License: Required for HVAC technicians who work on systems over 10 tons or 400,000 BTUs. NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
  • Application: Submit an application, pay the fee, and pass the exam to obtain the license.
  • Exam: The exam is administered by the National Inspection Testing and Certification (NITC) Corporation.
  • Fees: The application fee is $150, and the exam fee is $150.

North Carolina Department of Labor

  • HVAC Certification: Required for HVAC technicians who work on systems under 10 tons or 400,000 BTUs. NC Department of Labor
  • Application: Submit an application, pay the fee, and pass the exam to obtain the certification.
  • Exam: The exam is administered by the North Carolina Department of Labor.
  • Fees: The application fee is $25, and the exam fee is $25.

Federal Requirements

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Section 608 Technician Certification: Required for HVAC technicians who handle refrigerants. EPA Section 608 Certification
  • Exam: The exam is administered by EPA-approved certification organizations, such as the Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Certification Board (ACHR).
  • Fees: The exam fee varies by certification organization.

Certifications

Industry-Recognized Certifications

  • NATE Certification: North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is an industry-recognized certification for HVAC technicians. NATE Certification
  • R-410A Certification: R-410A certification is required for HVAC technicians who work on systems that use R-410A refrigerant. R-410A Certification

Other Requirements

  • Background Check: Some employers may require a background check as a condition of employment.
  • Insurance: HVAC technicians may need to carry liability insurance to protect themselves and their customers.

Resources

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Concord, North Carolina, is a promising and rewarding path. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing industry and secure a stable, well-paying job. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step toward your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an HVAC-R certified technician now!

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