Obtaining certification upon completing the requirements of HVAC courses online or offline is not a requirement in most states. However, individuals who do hold certifications have an edge as they apply for jobs in the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Certification From HVAC Courses Online or Offline
HVAC courses online and on-site are typically accredited by agencies such as the National Center for Construction Education and Research and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation. Such programs require that students pass a series of tests throughout the learning process.
Within such courses, students as well as technicians with less than two years of experience are subject to "entry-level" certification examinations. Such exams test for general competency in residential as well as commercial heat and cooling systems. Some exams also cover refrigeration.
Certification for Experienced Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Workers
Graduates of HVAC courses online or offline with at least two years of experience performing maintenance and repair work and at least one year of installations can opt to take certification examinations in order to enhance their credentials within their chosen specialties. Such certifications will help in gaining career advancements and higher wages.
Among the certification exams that experienced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers can take are administered by:
- The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI)
- HVAC Excellence
- the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI)
- the North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
HVAC Certification from the North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) offers a variety of tests that allow heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers to gain certification in their chosen specialty. To become certified by the NATE, individuals must take and pass both a Core exam and a Specialty exam. The Core exam to be taken is either on installation or service, depending on the preference of the candidate. On the other hand, the Specialty exam covers the specific areas of expertise in terms of units and systems.
Upon taking HVAC courses online or on-site, individuals may already take NATE certification exams as the agency doesn't state any pre-requisites. However, the agency does recommend that those applying for service technician certification have work experience of at least two years and those applying for installation technician certification have worked in the field for at least one year. Experience is not a requirement but may be necessary to pass the tests.
Although getting certified by accrediting agencies is not required to work in the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, it will definitely help individuals advance in their chosen career paths as well as get the best employment opportunities.
References:
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition. "Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers."
North American Technician Excellence. " NATE Certification 101."
Related Readings:
Paving Career Paths Through HVAC Courses Online and Other Options
Employment and Wage Expectations After Taking HVAC Courses Online
Taking Advantage of HVAC Online Courses
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