HVAC Schools in Alaska: The Ultimate Guide

Accredited Alaska HVAC Training Programs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Because HVACR systems have become increasingly complex, employers generally prefer applicants with post-secondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship.” Also, some craft workers enter apprenticeship programs after working as a helper. 

Formal education is not required by law in Alaska for entry-level HVAC workers, but it can help you land that first job in the field. College or trade school education in the field can also be used in place of part of the experience requirement to qualify to sit for the certification exam for licensing. In general, there’s a direct correlation between a degree and higher long-term earnings, so though it’s not required to go to HVAC school to get started, it could pay off in the long run. Also, most employers in Alaska expect you to have acquired basic knowledge through a training program, but some are willing to train new employees from scratch.

Alaska has one program accredited by either of the two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). These organizations evaluate the programs based on the facilities, the faculty, and whether the curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards.

HVAC Excellence has not accredited any programs in Alaska, but PAHRA has accredited one.

• Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) in Seward

There are several other HVAC training programs throughout the state. Among them are the union apprenticeships at each of the United Association (UA) Chapters and the nonunion apprenticeship through Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Alaska. All are registered apprenticeship programs with the U.S. Department of Labor. The Alaska Local Union UA Chapters are:

• LU 367 Anchorage

• LU 375 Fairbanks

• LU 262 Juneau

ABC Alaska offers apprenticeships in HVAC as well as Carpentry, Construction Craft Laborer, Electrical, Mechanical Insulation, Painter, Pipefitting, Plumbing, Sheet Metal and Sprinkler Fitting.

 HVACR Degrees & Certificates

As you weigh the benefit of getting some formal training at a technical or community college, you may want to speak with people in the field in your state. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, and some require a minimum amount of classroom training. Other states, like Alaska, don’t have educational requirements to become licensed, but require hands-on training. If the return on investment is not there in your state, it may make more sense to simply get an entry-level position and get the on-the-job work experience required for licensing. 

Regardless of the educational requirements by state, the Environmental Protection Agency requires anyone who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere have EPA certification. More on that later.

In terms of college education for HVACR techs, typically there is a range of degree and certificate programs. The time it takes to complete them and the cost of each are the most significant differences. The most common HVAC programs are:

• Certificate Program – three to six months

• Diploma Program – one year

• Associate’s Degree – two years

• Bachelor’s Degree – four years

Obviously, the longer the program, the more it costs. Most HVAC professionals have some postsecondary training because the heating systems and cooling systems used to regulate our homes and businesses are becoming increasingly complex and technical. However, very few HVACR professionals choose to get a four-year bachelor’s degree unless they’re seeking an engineering degree to design and develop those complex heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.  If this is a path that interests you, you may want to explore the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree at one of the four-year universities in Alaska like:

• University of Alaska – Anchorage

• University of Alaska – Fairbanks

As stated earlier, in many cases but not always, formal education pays off in the form of higher wages. 

Typical Courses in Technical College Programs

HVAC programs at technical colleges are all intended to prepare students for careers in the refrigeration, air conditioning and heating industries. All combine theory and the practical skills needed to do the job. Most encourage students to work in their field of interest while attending school if pursuing a longer degree, and many are designed with that in mind. One-semester programs typically prepare students to find entry-level work upon completion. 

For the certificate programs, the coursework is very specialized. Broader programs of study for lengthier diploma programs would incorporate classes on blueprint reading, gas heat, heat pumps and related systems, refrigeration fundamentals, principles and practices and system components. Air conditioning certificates or diploma programs would also include classes on air conditioning systems application and installation and troubleshooting air conditioning systems.

Students pursuing an Associate in Applied Science degree will need to fulfill general education coursework in addition to the specialized HVACR classes to meet the more rigorous requirements for that associate degree. 

School Selection Criteria  

There are a lot of things to consider when picking the right school and program.

Cost

Cost is, of course, at the top of the list. In-state tuition is significantly less expensive than out-of-state tuition. At Mat-Su College, for example, residents will pay $234/credit hours and non-residents pay $800/credit hour. Some of the programs offered here can be as little as $5,000 for an occupational endorsement certificate. There will be some variations in fees at each school, so be sure to review all the costs involved. 

There are also always costs for books and tools, but those tools are yours to keep as you enter your field. All students who are interested in receiving federal (Pell Grant) and any state grants apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form online.

Program Length

As noted above, you can choose from a very specialized certificate or a broader diploma or associate’s degree. The certificates can require as few as 15 to 24 credit hours and take one to two semesters to complete. Others may consist of as many as 45 credits and take three semesters but can be done within a year if students continue through the summer sessions. Associate degree programs typically take two years.

Benefits

There are many benefits to getting formal education if you want to join the HVACR profession. Though in Alaska there is no educational requirement to get started in the field, many employers will choose an applicant with a certificate or degree over one without credentials. Having some basic knowledge helps you to hit the ground running and secure your place in a shop full of professionals. Technical training is also usually rewarded with higher starting pay and lifelong earnings.

Online vs in-person

You may choose to get HVAC training through an online certificate program. Only you know if this type of independent curriculum will work for you. Both Penn Foster and Ashworth College offer online HVAC classes. NP College (National Polytechnic College) based in California also offers an HVAC-R Technician online program.

Online programs are ideal for people looking for entry-level HVAC jobs or for entry-level workers who are looking to increase their salary. HVACClasses.org gives a detailed description of some of the top online programs nationwide. If you know your learning style relies on personal instruction, seek out a more traditional in-person option.

Level of difficulty

HVACR programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry in commercial, industrial, or residential sectors. Curriculum includes an understanding of mathematics and physics. 

Refrigeration programs include detailed training in commercial refrigeration. HVAC technicians have to learn to do a lot of different things to be successful, including how to follow blueprints or other design specifications to install or repair HVAC systems, connect systems to fuel and water supply lines and air ducts, install electrical wiring and controls, proper techniques of refrigerant recovery, reclaiming and recycling, run diagnostics, and so much more. 

The BLS describes the many duties of a HVAC mechanics and installers this way: Install, clean, and maintain HVACR systems; Install electrical components and wiring; inspect and test HVACR systems and components; discuss system malfunctions with customers; repair or replace worn or defective parts; recommend maintenance to improve system performance; keep records of work performed. And, of course, especially in residential HVAC work, customer service is key.

School Comparison: At a Glance

The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) accredited by PAHRA is operated by the State of Alaska as a Division of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Located in Seward, Alaska, AVTEC offers Alaskans from across the state the opportunity to gain key employability and technical skills and start on a career in less than a year. The cost to train there for plumbing, heating, and refrigeration is a little over $12,000. Non-resident tuition is double the AVTEC regular tuition (fees, books, supplies, and housing are at the regular rate).

They offer students financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, and other means. For both AVTEC and Charter College the acceptance rate is 100%.

Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC)

Plumbing and Heating | Program offered in August | 630 clock hours | $12,702

Refrigeration | Program offered in August | 630 clock hours | $12,016 

Charter College in Anchorage

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration      

Classes start every five weeks | Certificate  | 40 weeks/10 months | $25,182

 Mat-Su College in Palmer

Refrigeration and Heating | Certificate | 9 months | Resident — $284/credit hour | Non-Resident — $848/ credit hour

Steps for Enrollment in Alaska

Every college and apprentice school has its own way of doing things, but in general the process begins with applying on the school or organization’s website. Some require that you pay an application fee and provide several documents. AVTEC has a web page dedicated to its application process. In general, the application process has the following steps:

1. Complete your application.

2. Pay the application fee (if applicable).

3. Provide proof of residency to qualify for in-state tuition.

4. Apply for financial aid.

5. Have sealed official high school transcript or GED scores sent.

6. Submit placement test scores.

7. If applicable, apply for on-campus housing.

If you choose to start with an apprenticeship, you will want to contact the Local Union or non-union trade organization chapter closest to you. Each organization has a slightly different application process, but the application requirements in general are:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be a high school graduate, senior scheduled to graduate or have earned a GED certificate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their diploma or GED certificate, and an official transcript of their grades following submission of the application.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better or pass an aptitude test.

• Pass a drug screen and criminal background checks.

HVAC Career Requirements in Alaska

As mentioned earlier, Alaska does not have an educational requirement to legally perform entry-level HVACR work in the state. Entry-level professionals just need to meet employer expectations, but often employers expect applicants to have some kind of postsecondary training. College education in the field can also be used in place of part of the experience requirement for licensing at the contractor level. If you want to own your own HVAC business or you just want to be a more attractive hire for someone who does, you will want to get your license.

The Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing staffs the mechanical administrator program in Alaska. The Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development adopts regulations to carry out laws governing mechanical administrators and makes final licensing decisions. To become a Mechanical Administrator in Alaska you will need to determine the specialty or specialties you’ll be performing. Each has specific education/experience requirements ranging from two to six years. In most cases, an HVAC program completed through an accredited program will count for up to two years of it.

For a detailed explanation of Alaska’s HVACR licensing requirements and how to fulfill them, check out our essential guide to getting your Alaska HVAC License. 

No matter what state you live in, there are Environmental Protection Agency requirements at the federal level for technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere. According to EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, this applies to any professional who conducts refrigerant line-pressure tests or handles or adds refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems. EPA certification is often part of HVAC degree programs. If you choose a shorter certificate program, you may need to get EPA certification on your own. Your employer should be able to guide you to resources, or you can find them in our Alaska HVAC License guide.

Salaries for HVAC Technicians in Alaska

Before paying for technical education and getting started in the HVAC field you’ll want some idea of what you can expect in terms of the return on your investment of time, effort, energy, and money. In other words, what can you expect to make as an HVAC professional in Alaska? Payscale.com data provides an answer based on your experience. The median HVAC salary in Alaska for 2023 is:

• Entry level <2 years: $54,600

• Intermediate 2-4 years: $62,800

• Senior 4-6 years: $71,600

• Supervisor > 7 years: $93,500

For more information about HVAC salaries, visit this state-by-state guide.

Industry Apprenticeships

Another way to get the training you need to become an HVAC mechanic or installer is through a formal apprenticeship. Most apprenticeships are three to five years long and require you to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or a GED, a valid driver’s license, and have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better. 

Union HVAC apprenticeships are offered in Alaska through the United Association local union chapters — LU 367 in Anchorage, LU 375 in Fairbanks, and LU 262 in Juneau.

They are five years long. Each year includes 1,700 to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 246 hours of classroom courses, including basics such as mathematics, science, drafting, welding, and other trade-related courses. Apprentices work for member contractors with an opportunity for increased wages each year until reaching journeyman status.

ABC Alaska offers a nonunion apprenticeship in HVAC. The program is a four-year apprenticeship. To reach journey-level you will need to complete five levels of book work for your chosen trade and 8,000 on-the-job training hours.

Some HVAC companies will hire applicants who have had no previous training and provide the training themselves — creating an in-house apprenticeship. A typical model of that is pairing a new employee with an experienced technician for the hands-on part of training and then requiring new hires to attend classes at night at a community college or sometimes taught through the company itself. This typically includes getting EPA Certification and other HVAC certification such as North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification to demonstrate your proficiency.

The state also has a website dedicated to registered apprenticeships for job seekers. 

Other School Options

We’ve highlighted some of the more well-known HVAC training programs in Alaska so far, but there are others to consider. For example, the University of Alaska offers college credit for apprentices. Both the Anchorage Campus and the Fairbanks Campus offer the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in apprenticeship technologies. It is specifically designed for individuals who are completing or have completed a formal apprenticeship program and who are interested in earning a degree to prepare for leadership and management positions within their trade or occupation.

There are training programs throughout the state. Here are a few more.

• Alaska Southcentral/Southeastern Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 23 Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee in Anchorage offers an HVAC-R Service Technician apprenticeship.

• University of Alaska Southeast offers degree and certificate programs at its campuses in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka.

• Alaska Works Partnership offers a variety of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs including Sheet Metal Worker & HVAC System Tech.

You can find the training you need to excel in a career in HVACR in Alaska. The opportunities are all around you!