My sixteen-year-old son has struggled to get this far in high school. At this point, we know that he will not be attending a college to become a doctor or lawyer, but that he will be going to a trade school instead. Why would we make this plan so soon? Will he really benefit from going to a trade school and not a college? There are so many benefits to going to a trade school, and if you visit my blog, you will learn what those benefits are. Hopefully, you will gain a better understanding of how a trade school can help a struggling student create a career plan that is reachable.
If the possibility of becoming a refrigeration technician intrigues you, you'll be glad to know that the occupation is experiencing fast job growth and pays well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employers have trouble finding enough qualified applicants. By acquiring training in the field at a trade school or technical college, you'll learn how to work on the newer systems and gain a competitive edge for the best jobs.
Salaries
The average hourly rate for refrigeration mechanics and installers as of 2014 was 22.54, or $46,880 per year. These workers have the potential to earn much more. The upper 25 percent of refrigeration technicians in 2014 had wages higher than $27.60 hourly, translating to higher than $57,000 annually. The top 10 percent earned annual salaries higher than $70,000 per year.
Job Security
The shortage of qualified refrigeration technicians and continued job growth means job security for skilled and reliable workers. Unlike many occupations, this one can't be outsourced to other countries. Even when new construction slows down, existing systems continue to need maintenance and repair work. Businesses eventually need to replace existing refrigeration systems or decide to do so for better performance and efficiency.
In addition, sometimes new environmental regulations result in businesses needing to modify or replace their old system to eliminate certain chemical pollutants.
Training
A variety of training programs are available in the area of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR). You also may be able to get hired as a paid apprentice, but completing some basic hands-on training and coursework in the field first can boost your chances.
Expect to receive ongoing training once you're hired as well. New technicians generally begin by working alongside experienced techs doing repair and maintenance work, then progress to assisting with installation. Continued technological developments mean that refrigeration technicians must keep up with advancements in the field, so you can expect to participate in continuing education in the future.
Additional Requirements
Along with having a certain level of knowledge and practice under your belt, you'll need other qualifications to work in this field. Refrigeration techs must be physically fit enough to handle the work demands, which can involve stooping, bending, kneeling and crawling. Heavy lifting is required. You'll sometimes have to work in environments where the temperature isn't comfortable.
Where to Begin
Contact trade schools and technical colleges in your area (such as HVAC Technical Institute) to learn which ones offer the type of program you need for an entry-level refrigeration technician position. Make appointments to talk to representatives of the HVACR departments and tour the facilities. You'll be taking your first step toward a rewarding, well-paying career that provides long-term job security.
Share6 July 2015
