HVAC Training Programs in Michigan

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2017), HVAC technicians, mechanics, and installers can expect relatively high job growth in the years to come. In fact, the BLS (2017) projected a 15 percent increase in openings in this field between 2016 and 2026, double the average percent growth anticipated across all occupations (7 percent). To enhance one’s ability to secure a job in this field, many MI HVAC employers call for:

• Driver’s license
• Proof of HVAC technical education (certificate, diploma, or degree)
• Experience on the job (3-5 years preferred)
• NATE certification(s)
• Ability to pass a drug test

These professionals work in a range of environments since a majority of structures in Michigan provide some form of climate control. HVAC technicians may work in homes, businesses, hospitals, schools, factories, and other environments. Since many HVAC contracting companies perform regular maintenance on equipment for customers in Michigan and systems generally need to be replaced every ten years, there is a steady stream of employment. Furthermore, there are seasonal spikes in activity for Michigan HVAC workers during summers and winters, and these professionals may be called upon to work evenings, weekends, or holidays to meet client demand.

There are HVAC opportunities available across all of the main job-hunting websites such as CareerBuilder, LinkedIn, and others. As proof of point, Indeed (Oct. 2018) posted more than 800 openings for HVAC workers at Parker-Arntz Plumbing & Heating, Inc., Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, LECO Corporation, and the Grand Hotel, to name a few.

It is important to note that the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 2018) found Michigan was the fourth most affordable state nationwide, boasting particular savings in housing and groceries. While the residents of the Wolverine State enjoy relatively more bang for their buck compared to the rest of the country, its HVAC workers also enjoy relatively high wages.

Not surprisingly, salaries do vary by region of employment. Bay City and Ann Arbor enjoyed the highest salaries in the state. Following is a breakdown of the number of HVAC workers employed, average salaries, and percentile figures among the 19 BLS-designated regions of Michigan (BLS 2017):

Ann Arbor, MI (260 HVAC workers employed): $59,840 annual average salary

Balance of Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area (680 HVAC workers): $39,810 annual average salary

Battle Creek, MI (120 HVAC workers): $49,230 annual average salary

Bay City, MI (30 HVAC workers): $66,630 annual average salary

Detroit-Dearborn-Livonia, MI Metropolitan Division (1660 HVAC workers): $51,850 annual average salary

Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI (4340 HVAC workers): $50,220 annual average salary

Flint, MI (300 HVAC workers): $48,170 annual average salary

Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI (1310 HVAC workers): $51,070 annual average salary

Jackson, MI (80 HVAC workers): $49,200 annual average salary

Kalamazoo-Portage, MI (260 HVAC workers): $50,510 annual average salary

Lansing-East Lansing, MI (490 HVAC workers): $48,850 annual average salary

Midland, MI (80 HVAC workers): $42,970 annual average salary

Monroe, MI (60 HVAC workers): $52,920 annual average salary

Muskegon, MI (160 HVAC workers): $46,570 annual average salary

Niles-Benton Harbor, MI (70 HVAC workers): $48,160 annual average salary

Northeast Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area (150 HVAC workers): $42,650 annual average salary

Northwest Lower Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area (250 HVAC workers): $45,790 annual average salary

Saginaw, MI (80 HVAC workers): $53,530 annual average salary

Upper Peninsula of Michigan nonmetropolitan area (230 HVAC workers): $48,270 annual average salary

Warren-Troy-Farmington Hills, MI Metropolitan Division (2680 HVAC workers): $50,620 annual average salary

In order to become an HVAC mechanic, installer, or repairer in Michigan, it’s important to receive the proper training in the profession. Not only is this important to ensure the proper functioning of machines, but HVAC work incurs a higher average rate of injury than other professions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2017) points out that relatively common problems for HVAC technicians include burns, electric shocks, and muscle strains. Handling refrigerants can be especially hazardous since contact with the skin can produce frostbite or even blindness. Therefore it is imperative to learn about the best practices and procedures in handling equipment safely.

Aspiring HVAC workers are encouraged to seek out accredited training programs. The process of accreditation takes into consideration various aspects of a training program or school, including the quality of facilities, the comprehensiveness of curricula, and various student outcome measures (e.g., average student debt, post-program employment rates). There are two esteemed program-approval entities in HVAC: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA).

As of 2018 there is one PAHRA-accredited HVAC training program in Michigan: Grand Rapids Community College. GRCC boasts affordable tuition, flexible class scheduling (day or evening), quality job placement assistance, and a focus on the practical applications of all knowledge imparted. There are several HVAC programs available, including a certificate and a two-year associate of applied arts and sciences (AAS) degree in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology. The AAS program features hands-on coursework in heating & cooling controls; HVACR electronic controls; commercial refrigeration; metallic & non-metallic joining; duct construction & design; mechanical codes; and basic boiler operation. Notably, this program costs $114 per credit hour for residents, $244 for non-GR residents, and $362 for those living out of state.

There is one training school accredited by HVAC Excellence at Washtenaw Community College of Ann Arbor. Similarly, Washtenaw boasts both a certificate program (“accelerated training in HVACR”) and an associate of applied science (AAS) in sustainable HVACR technologies. Notably, parts of the AAS coursework are available online, allowing for an optimally flexible schedule. Both programs feature courses such as HVAC sheet metal fabrication; residential & light commercial heating systems; and soldering & brazing. The distance-based AAS program—ideal for journey-level technicians ready to complete a degree—prepares students to take the Green Energy Awareness certification test offered by the Green Mechanical Council, providing additional instruction in advanced electrical & direct digital controls; air system layout & design; residential HVAC competency exams & codes; hydronic systems; energy audits; and commercial industry standards with competency exams. This online HVAC program costs $108 per credit for those living in the district, $115 for out-of-district, and $119 for people living out of state.

Finally, the Dorsey Schools campus at Wayne-Westland also offers an HVAC systems technician diploma, providing hands-on instruction in HVAC systems (residential and commercial), electricity, and refrigeration. This program includes preparation for the mandatory EPA 608 Certification (type II) for those who work with refrigerants. Classes in this skilled trades program include controls; blueprinting, weatherization & sustainability; and industry safety standards.

For those who live in more rural regions of Michigan or have other time commitments preventing them from attending an on-campus program, there are other distance-based HVAC training programs available in addition to the aforementioned AAS (Washtenaw Community College). To learn about the range of web-based learning available in this field, check out the online HVAC programs page.