Alabama 2008 MSA Employment Wage Estimates
Name of Program Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
| Occupational Title | Entry Level | Experienced |
| Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Work | $7.93/hr | $11.99/hr |
| Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All | $11.65/hr | $18.70/hr |
| Heating, A/C and Refrigeration Mechanics | $12.80/hr | $19.83/hr |
Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Air conditioning and refrigeration systems are an intricate part of the success of almost every business. Air conditioning systems are responsible for controlling the temperature, humidity, and the total air quality in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Refrigeration systems make it possible to store and transport food, medicine, and other perishable items. This is a skilled occupation that requires qualified technicians to install, maintain, and repair such systems.
The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program at H. Councill Trenholm State Technical College is designed to teach a student the basic principles involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Through the various courses, a student will gain technical knowledge and practical hands-on experience in servicing, troubleshooting, and maintaining these systems.
Occupational Choices
Job prospects for air conditioning and refrigeration technicians are expected to be very good through the year 2012. As the population and economy grow and new residential, commercial, and industrial structures are built, more technicians will be needed to install and maintain climate control systems.
Average Full-Time Wage
The average full-time annual wage for an air conditioning and refrigeration technician is $25,000 to $65,000.* These technicians enjoy a variety of employer-sponsored benefits such as health insurance and pension plans. Some employers may also pay for work-related training and provide uniforms, company vans, and tools.
Awards
Associate Degree in Applied Technology in A/C & Refrigeration Technology
Certificate in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Specialized Training Certificate in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Emphasis: Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Estimated Length & Cost*
| Tuition Award | Length & Fees | Credit Hours | Books | Tools | Supplies |
| Associate Degree | 6 Terms $6,480 | 72 | $225 | $580 | $300 |
| Certificate | 5 Terms $5,400 | 60 | $225 | $580 | $300 |
| Spec. Training Certificate | 2 Terms $2,430 | 27 | $175 | $580 | $300 |
*Tax not included. Prices are subject to change without prior notice; cost of books may vary considerably among suppliers. The length of the program is based on full-time status of 12-15 credit hours per term. Enrollment in transitional level general education courses will alter the length of the program.
**Data obtained from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006-2007.
