HVAC Career Guide – Projected Growth and Salaries

“The future of the HVAC industry is driven by sustainability and smart technology.”

Brian Sullivan, Assistant Professor of HVAC Technology, NEIT

In the modern world, we take climate control for granted. We have become accustomed to staying warm indoors without having to pile on hats, coats, socks, and other clothes; we turn to fans and air conditioners to build a cool summer climate. Data centers rely on a carefully controlled temperature to keep our information safe and always available. Hospitals rely on climate control to keep patients comfortable and strategically designed airflow to keep patients healthy. In addition, the proper disposal, purification, and reuse of refrigeration chemicals at the end of a cooling appliance’s life is an essential part of the solution to the climate crisis.

Heating, air conditioning, and ventilation (HVAC) systems make much in our society possible, and HVAC technicians are the professionals that put those systems in and keep them running. With growing populations, warming temperatures, increased reliance on data, and a need to be mindful of how our appliances affect our earth, the field for careers in the HVAC field is growing.

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025) projects that openings for HVAC technicians will grow 9 percent nationally between 2020 and 2030, which is more than double the average for all occupations (4 percent). This growth is due to commercial and residential building construction, as well as the increasing number of sophisticated climate-control systems.

New regulations require homes to be more energy-efficient than in the past, and those in HVAC careers need to have more technical skills to understand these new systems. For example, some homeowners now opt for two-stage furnace systems that create more balanced heating and lead to improved energy efficiency. Homeowners may also be more interested in savings and invest in better equipment upfront to be able to save on costs in the future.

HVAC technicians install, care for, repair, and help with the proper disposal of heating and air-conditioning systems units. HVAC technicians also work with ventilation and refrigeration systems in residential and commercial properties.

On a day-to-day basis, HVAC technicians may find themselves responding to customer service requests, traveling to job sites, educating customers on energy savings and best use, and performing repairs or maintenance according to need or pre-set schedules.

HVAC techs are responsible for ensuring that HVAC systems are running according to performance standards and as per local, state-wide, and federal regulations. Because of the physical nature of the work, HVAC techs must be able to lift certain amounts of weight, bend and stoop, and have a baseline amount of physical endurance.

Meet the Expert: Brian Sullivan

Brian Sullivan is an assistant professor of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology at the New England Institute of Technology. He earned his associate in science degree in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology from New England Institute of Technology. He also holds a bachelor’s of applied science in educational/instructional technology from Fitchburg State University.

Before joining the New England Institute of Technology faculty in 2009, Sullivan served as an HVAC instructor at the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School for more than 14 years.

HVACClasses.org: What’s something you wish the public understood about the HVAC industry?

Sullivan: I wish the public understood the complexity and importance of a properly designed and installed HVAC system. It’s not just about a thermostat and a furnace. An HVAC system is a complex network of components—including ductwork, refrigerant lines, and electrical connections—all working together to provide comfort and safety.

Many people think a home or building’s comfort is solely dependent on the heating and cooling unit itself. However, a poorly designed duct system can lead to inefficient operation, higher energy bills, and uneven temperatures, even with a brand-new unit. The air you breathe is also a major factor. Proper ventilation and filtration are critical for indoor air quality, which directly impacts health. We’re not just moving air; we’re creating a controlled environment that supports well-being.

I also wanted to impress upon the public the dangers associated with a career in HVAC:

Falls: HVAC technicians often work at heights on ladders, scaffolds, and rooftops, leading to a significant risk of falls.
Physical Strain: The job is physically demanding, involving lifting heavy equipment and working in cramped, awkward spaces like attics and crawl spaces. This can lead to strains, sprains, and long-term joint and muscle pain.
Chemical Hazards: Technicians are regularly exposed to refrigerants, solvents, and other chemicals. Inhaling these substances can be harmful, and some, like refrigerants, can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation if a leak occurs in a confined space.
Electrical Dangers: HVAC systems operate on high voltage, and technicians are at risk of electrocution if they do not follow proper safety procedures.
Confined Spaces: Working in tight, poorly ventilated areas like air ducts and around compressors can be dangerous due to limited space and potential exposure to toxic gases.
Extreme Weather: Some jobs require working outdoors in all weather conditions, from extreme heat to rain and snow.
Repetitive Motion and Wear and Tear: Over time, the physical demands of the job can lead to chronic injuries to the back, knees, and shoulders.
Emergency Calls and Unpredictable Schedules: Technicians are often on-call for emergencies, leading to irregular hours and increased stress, especially during peak seasons.

HVACClasses.org: Do you have any advice for those considering a career in HVAC?

Sullivan: My advice is to be ready to be a lifelong learner. The HVAC industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, refrigerants, and efficiency standards emerging all the time. A career in HVAC offers more than just hands-on work; it requires a strong grasp of physics, chemistry, and electrical principles. You’ll need to be a problem-solver who can diagnose complex issues and use critical thinking to find solutions.

HVAC technicians have a high demand for their skills. It’s a stable and well-paying career that doesn’t necessarily require a four-year college degree. Many excellent programs, including trade schools and apprenticeships, can get you started. Focus on developing your troubleshooting skills and customer service, as you’ll often be the face of your company.

HVACClasses.org: What does the future of the HVAC industry look like to you?

Sullivan: The future of the HVAC industry is driven by sustainability and smart technology. We’re moving toward more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly systems. Heat pumps, which can both heat and cool a home, are becoming the standard, especially with advancements in cold-climate performance. There will be a greater emphasis on refrigerants with a lower global warming potential to comply with environmental regulations.

The integration of smart technology will also be a major factor. Systems will become more connected and automated, allowing for remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and greater control for homeowners through apps and smart home platforms. Technicians of the future will need to be proficient in both mechanical and digital skills, understanding how to service not just the hardware but the software and network connections that control it. The industry is on the cusp of a major transformation, with a strong focus on creating greener and more intelligent indoor environments.

HVAC Technician Salary & Career Outlook

As noted above, predictions stemming from 2025 data show that jobs for HVAC mechanics and installers are expected to grow by 9 percent through the year 2033, which is faster than the average for all U.S. professions (4 percent). This equates to 40,100 new jobs over that decade-long span.

In the U.S., the most comprehensive and reliable source of pay data is the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS (May 2024) reported that there were 396,870 HVAC mechanics and installers nationwide, earning an average annual salary of $62,690. Here are the percentile wage estimates for HVAC technicians:

	United States
Number of HVAC Professionals Employed	396,870
Annual Mean Wage	$62,690
10th percentile	$39,130
25th percentile	$47,850
50th percentile	$59,810
75th percentile	$74,820
90th percentile	$91,020

The region in which an HVAC technician is employed can also have a major impact on how many jobs are available. According to the BLS (May 2024), the following states in the U.S. employ the greatest number of HVAC techs:

State	Number of HVAC techs
Florida	38,290
California	34,020
Texas	32,070
New York	22,710
Pennsylvania	16,930

The region also has an impact on the average HVAC technician’s salary. According to the BLS (May 2024), the following five states in the US boast the highest average salaries for HVAC technicians:

State	Annual mean wage
Alaska	$83,660
District of Columbia	$83,390
Massachusetts	$76,990
Connecticut	$73,910
Minnesota	$73,390

Despite these regional differences in HVAC technician salaries, it should be noted that the cost of living may make higher salaries necessary, or lower salaries sufficient, for the cost of living. For example, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 2025), Hawaii is the most unaffordable region in the U.S., and Alaska, the District of Columbia, and Massachusetts are all in the top ten most expensive regions in the country. The high cost of living in each of these areas could be one reason to explain why they need to offer the highest average salaries to HVAC technicians.

For those interested in pursuing a career in HVAC repair, maintenance, or installation, there is a wide range of careers available. Keep reading to learn more about basic ways to enter an HVAC career, in addition to what careers are available.

HVAC Career Details

Although education beyond high school is not technically required for an HVAC career, the BLS (2025) notes that the increasing complexity of HVAC systems means that most employers prefer that HVAC technicians have some form of postsecondary training.

Students can build HVAC careers by graduating from certificates, diplomas, or vocational programs, which are often the fastest track to work. Those looking to gain a wider breadth of training before work, or those interested in eventual project management should consider earning an associate of applied science (AAS) or a bachelor of science in HVAC. Apprenticeships under a licensed HVAC professional, which last anywhere from two to six years, allow for future HVAC techs to learn skills on the job under an experienced HVAC professional.

It’s important to note that most post-secondary programs will prepare students to pass the EPA section 608 Technician Certification. EPA 608 is a federally required certification for anyone who will be working with equipment that could release ozone-depleting refrigerants into the atmosphere and is often required, even for entry-level HVAC jobs. There are varied other credentials that HVAC professionals can pursue, detailed at length on the HVAC certification page.

Discover various high-growth HVAC career paths below, including information on accredited training programs, salary, career outlook, and licensing.

AC Technician

With increasingly extreme weather throughout the year, the demand for climate control experts such as AC technicians is unlikely to dwindle. Rather, the demand for those technicians who are well-versed in new air conditioning systems, particularly those with more complex computer control systems, will only increase.

Automotive HVAC Technician

Today, even the least-expensive vehicles come with climate control as standard equipment. An automotive HVAC tech keeps all the parts working smoothly and efficiently to maintain interior comfort for passengers.

HVAC Engineer

HVAC engineers plan and coordinate every aspect of a system installation. HVAC engineers can conduct performance evaluations of existing systems and recommend improvements to increase efficiency, as well as design climate control systems for new construction.

HVAC Installer

HVAC installation is the process of putting heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems into residential and commercial properties. HVAC installers need to have mechanical skills and be manually dexterous to put these systems into place. They should be physically strong, capable of troubleshooting, and know how to manage their time since they may have more than one site where they work.

HVAC Mechanic

For anyone who believes they have what it takes to become an HVAC mechanic, now could not be a better time to explore the career. The BLS has indicated that the career opportunities for HVAC mechanics are expected to climb over the next decade, at a rate of 9 percent from 2023 to 2033 (BLS 2025).

HVAC Refrigeration Technician

A refrigeration technician cares for the refrigeration and cooling systems in a home or place of business, such as a restaurant kitchen, grocery store, or a home that is under construction. They know how to install and repair these systems and may be tasked with doing upgrades, replacing parts, or working with new units. Refrigeration technicians are usually familiar with many different kinds of systems and know how to read schematics.

Solar Technician

Thanks to the solar power market's rapid growth, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025) has noted a positive job outlook for solar PV installers. It predicts that employment will increase by an astounding 48 percent between 2023 and 2033 and that the industry will open up excellent job opportunities for qualified individuals—particularly those who complete photovoltaic training programs.

Wind Turbine Technician

As the demand for renewable and green energy continues to escalate, the number of wind turbines and wind farms will increase. Jobs for wind turbine technicians are the second-fastest-growing occupation in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025), the employment of wind turbine technicians is projected to grow 60 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Matt Zbrog

Matt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. He's been living abroad since 2016. Long spells in Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America have made the global mindset a core tenet of his perspective. From conceptual art in Los Angeles, to NGO work on the front lines of Eastern Ukraine, to counterculture protests in the Southern Caucasus, Matt's writing subjects are all over the map, and so is he.

Becca Brewer, MEd

Becca Brewer is building a better future on a thriving earth by healing herself into wholeness, divesting from separation, and walking the path of the loving heart. Previously to her journey as an adventurer for a just, meaningful, and regenerative world, Becca was a formally trained sexuality educator with a master of education.