STVT Program Aims to Prepare Future Technicians
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT) has announced the introduction of their Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Basic Refrigeration (HVAC/BR) program to students in the Rio Grande Valley. With a population of nearly 200,000 people and a crop of new businesses in the region, the program aims to help grow with the community and prepare future technicians to meet the demand for skilled professionals in the industry.
HVAC/BR technicians play a vital role in ensuring that homes, offices, and other commercial spaces are comfortable and safe to inhabit. With Texas summers often hitting triple-digit temperatures, the demand for HVAC/BR professionals is consistently high. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that more than 40,000 HVAC/BR jobs will be available annually across the country, and as new energy efficiency systems are implemented, technicians will be required to retrofit, upgrade, or replace them entirely.
The comprehensive HVAC/BR program at STVT includes coursework on electrical circuit troubleshooting and controls, ventilation duct design and installation, air conditioning system design, troubleshooting of gas and oil heating systems, heating and cooling system design, and commercial/industrial refrigeration systems. The program offers a comprehensive approach that combines classroom-style education and hands-on learning environments, in addition to critical lessons in workplace safety.
STVT’s HVAC/BR training covers but is not limited to:
- Electrical circuit troubleshooting and controls
- Foundational electrical work understanding
- Ventilation duct design and installation.
- Air conditioning system design
- Troubleshooting of gas and oil heating systems
- Heating and cooling system design
- Commercial/Industrial refrigeration systems
The HVAC/BR Curriculum at STVT is recognized by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), a leading education foundation for the construction industry. As partners, STVT will incorporate NCCER’s curriculum specific skilled trades lessons.
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute Introduces Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Basic Refrigeration Training
Enrollment is currently underway for the 10-month program, with classes offered on a rolling basis every five weeks. The program prepares students to sit for the EPA Section 608 Technician certification. Graduates will have access to externships and career assistance, including guidance from the Career Services team, resume updates, workshops, and more.
It’s important to note that while STVT cannot guarantee job placement, salary, or employment, financial aid is available for those who qualify. The certification requirements for taking and passing certification examinations are not controlled by STVT but by outside agencies, and are subject to change without notice. Therefore, STVT cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take certification examinations, regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.
In conclusion, STVT’s HVAC/BR program offers an excellent opportunity for students in the Rio Grande Valley to receive high-quality training and education in a rapidly growing field. With a comprehensive approach that combines classroom-style education and hands-on learning environments, the program is designed to prepare future technicians to meet the demand for skilled professionals in the industry. For more information on the program, visit www.stvt.edu.