HVAC R Programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Albuquerque

Albuquerque, New Mexico, known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is a great place to start a career as an HVAC-R technician. With a growing demand for skilled professionals in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry, Albuquerque offers numerous opportunities for career growth. The average salary for an HVAC-R technician in Albuquerque is competitive, and the job market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. For more detailed information on job outlook and salary, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you’re looking to become an HVAC-R technician in Albuquerque, there are several local schools offering comprehensive training programs:

1. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)
   • Location: Main Campus, Albuquerque
   • Program: CNM offers an HVAC-R program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program covers essential topics such as refrigeration, heating systems, and air conditioning.
   • CNM HVAC-R Program
2. Pima Medical Institute
   • Location: Albuquerque Campus, Northeast Heights
   • Program: Pima Medical Institute provides an HVAC-R technician program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry. The curriculum includes courses in electrical systems, refrigeration, and HVAC controls.
   • Pima Medical Institute HVAC-R Program
3. Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell (ENMU-R)
   • Location: Roswell, NM (Approx. 200 miles from Albuquerque)
   • Program: ENMU-R offers an HVAC-R program that focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program includes training in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC-R systems.
   • ENMU-R HVAC-R 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 Electronics: Understanding electrical circuits and components.
• Refrigeration Principles: Learning about refrigeration cycles and systems.
• Heating Systems: Studying different types of heating systems and their components.
• Air Conditioning Systems: Gaining knowledge about air conditioning units and their maintenance.
• HVAC Controls: Learning about control systems used in HVAC-R applications.

Programs usually last from six months to two years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree. Some programs also offer specializations in areas such as commercial refrigeration or advanced HVAC controls.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Albuquerque

Albuquerque hosts several major HVAC-R companies that offer employment opportunities for certified technicians:

1. Yearout Mechanical, Inc.
   • Location: North Valley
   • Description: Yearout Mechanical is a leading provider of mechanical contracting services, including HVAC-R installation and maintenance.
   • Yearout Mechanical Careers
2. B&D Industries, Inc.
   • Location: Northeast Heights
   • Description: B&D Industries offers a wide range of services, including HVAC-R solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial clients.
   • B&D Industries Careers
3. TLC Plumbing & Utility
   • Location: South Valley
   • Description: TLC Plumbing & Utility provides comprehensive HVAC-R services, from installation to repair and maintenance.
   • TLC Plumbing & Utility Careers

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in New Mexico

To become a certified HVAC-R technician in Albuquerque, NM, you need to meet both state and local requirements:

State Requirements

• New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD): The NMRLD requires HVAC technicians to obtain a Journeyman Mechanical License to work in the state.
  • NMRLD Website
• New Mexico Mechanical Journeyman License: To obtain this license, you need to:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have 4 years of experience in the trade
  • Pass the written exam administered by the NMRLD
  • Pay the required fees
  • NMRLD Mechanical Journeyman License Application

Local Requirements

• City of Albuquerque: The City of Albuquerque requires HVAC technicians to obtain a business registration license to operate in the city.
  • City of Albuquerque Business Registration
• Bernalillo County: Bernalillo County does not have specific requirements for HVAC technicians, but you may need to obtain a business license to operate in the county.
  • Bernalillo County Business License

Certifications

• EPA 608 Certification: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires HVAC technicians to obtain EPA 608 certification to handle refrigerants.
  • EPA 608 Certification Information
• NATE Certification: The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is a nationally recognized certification for HVAC technicians.
  • NATE Certification Information
• R-410A Certification: The R-410A certification is required to work with refrigerants in HVAC systems.
  • R-410A Certification Information

Other Requirements

• Liability Insurance: Many employers and clients require HVAC technicians to have liability insurance to protect against accidents and damages.
• Background Checks: Some employers and clients may require HVAC technicians to undergo background checks.

Resources

• New Mexico HVAC Association: The New Mexico HVAC Association provides resources and training for HVAC technicians in the state.
  • New Mexico HVAC Association Website

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a rewarding and promising choice. With numerous training programs available and a growing job market, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the HVAC-R industry.