HVAC R Programs in Gresham, Oregon
Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Gresham, Oregon
Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Gresham
Gresham, Oregon, located just east of Portland, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful parks, diverse neighborhoods, and growing economy. With landmarks such as the Gresham Japanese Garden and the Springwater Corridor Trail, Gresham offers a blend of urban and natural attractions. As of 2024, the average salary for an HVAC-R technician in Oregon is approximately $52,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 13% over the next decade. For more detailed job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
HVAC-R Training Programs in Gresham, Oregon
If you’re looking to become an HVAC-R technician in Gresham, there are several local schools offering comprehensive training programs:
- Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Location: Gresham, OR
- Program: HVAC-R Technology Program
- Description: MHCC offers a robust 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. For more information, visit the MHCC HVAC-R Program Page.
- Portland Community College (PCC)
- Location: Portland, OR (Approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Program: HVAC-R Apprenticeship Program
- Description: PCC provides an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This program is designed to prepare students for a career in the HVAC-R industry. For more details, visit the PCC HVAC-R Program Page.
- Clackamas Community College (CCC)
- Location: Oregon City, OR (Approximately 20 miles from Gresham)
- Program: HVAC-R Certificate Program
- Description: CCC offers a certificate program in HVAC-R that focuses on the technical skills needed for installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC-R systems. For more information, visit the CCC HVAC-R Program Page.
Typical Program Curriculum
HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of theoretical and practical courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills. Common courses include:
- Introduction to HVAC-R Systems
- Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC-R
- Refrigeration Principles
- Heating Systems
- Air Conditioning Systems
- Environmental and Safety Regulations
Programs usually last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you are pursuing a certificate or an associate degree. Some programs may offer specializations in areas such as commercial refrigeration or advanced HVAC-R technology.
HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Gresham
Gresham and the surrounding areas offer numerous employment opportunities for HVAC-R technicians. Here are some major employers:
- Sun Glow Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning
- Location: Portland, OR (Approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Description: Sun Glow Inc. is a well-established HVAC-R company offering a range of services from installation to maintenance. For employment opportunities, visit the Sun Glow Inc. Careers Page.
- AAA Heating and Cooling
- Location: Portland, OR (Approximately 15 miles from Gresham)
- Description: AAA Heating and Cooling provides comprehensive HVAC-R services and is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction. For job openings, visit the AAA Heating and Cooling Careers Page.
- Eastside Heating & Air Conditioning
- Location: Gresham, OR
- Description: Eastside Heating & Air Conditioning is a local company specializing in residential and commercial HVAC-R services. For more information, visit the Eastside Heating & Air Conditioning Careers Page.
HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Oregon
To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Gresham, OR, you’ll need to meet the requirements at the state and federal levels. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:
State Requirements
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) License: You’ll need to obtain a CCB license to work as an HVAC-R technician in Oregon. Oregon CCB
- Requirements:
- Age: 18 years or older
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background check
- Complete a pre-license training course approved by the CCB
- Pass the CCB licensing exam
- Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Certification: You’ll need to obtain a DEQ certification to handle refrigerants in Oregon. Oregon DEQ
- Requirements:
- Pass a DEQ-approved refrigerant handling certification course
- Pass a DEQ certification exam
Federal Requirements
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 Technician Certification: You’ll need to obtain an EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants that contain ozone-depleting substances. EPA Section 608
- Requirements:
- Pass an EPA-approved Section 608 certification course
- Pass an EPA certification exam
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification: While not mandatory, OSHA certification is recommended to ensure a safe working environment. OSHA
- Requirements:
- Complete an OSHA-approved training course
- Pass an OSHA certification exam
Industry Certifications
- North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification: NATE certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates your expertise in HVAC-R technology. NATE
- Requirements:
- Meet the NATE certification eligibility requirements
- Pass a NATE certification exam
- Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) Certification: RSES certification is another industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your expertise in HVAC-R technology. RSES
- Requirements:
- Meet the RSES certification eligibility requirements
- Pass an RSES certification exam
Local Requirements
- City of Gresham Business License: You may need to obtain a business license from the City of Gresham to operate an HVAC-R business within the city limits. City of Gresham
- Requirements:
- Meet the City of Gresham’s business license requirements
- Pass a background check
- Obtain liability insurance
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Gresham, Oregon, is a promising and rewarding path. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing industry and secure a stable and well-paying job. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an HVAC-R certified technician now!