Contact Information
Daryl Johnson, instructor/program coordinator
daryl.johnson.1@ndscs.edu
701-671-2515
Barnard Hall 122
Delivery Methods
Face-to-Face: Wahpeton
The Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Technology program provides a balance of theory and application, in keeping with the philosophy of the North Dakota State College of Science. This includes a solid foundation of the principles of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration combined with extensive laboratory experience.
While in the lab, students learn to test, systematically troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical and mechanical HVAC/R systems and components. Residential and light commercial heating, ventilating, and air conditioning along with food preservation refrigeration are the focus of the program.
Because of the continuing demand for technicians, an HVAC/R graduate can easily find employment in any state or country. The average age of an HVAC/R technician in the US according to the US Department of Labor is 55 years old. In fact, an NDSCS HVAC/R graduate statistically has multiple jobs to choose from at graduation with starting salaries averaging $37,000 per year (although most students have already found employment prior to graduation). Experienced veteran technicians command salaries averaging between $70,000 and $100,000 per year.
Career opportunities for technicians are multiplying with technological advances in the use of microcomputers for data processing and system control. The demand is also spurred by expansion in the production, storage, and marketing of food and other perishables.
The growing emphasis on energy cost and utilization also is creating a need for technicians to renovate, convert, and service existing heating and air conditioning systems. Graduates may work as service technicians, installation technicians, manufacturers, laboratory technicians, sales representatives, or designers.
NOTE: This program requires either an HP EliteBook or ZBOOK laptop or equivalent. Please refer to the NDSCS website for specifications. For further information, contact the NDSCS ITS Department at 701-671-3333 option 5.
Admission Requirements*
The applicants must be high school graduates or equivalent. Students considered for acceptance must complete all admission requirements.
Please Note: Students are placed into English, math and reading courses based on ACT, ACCUPLACER or other nationally recognized tests. Please see www.NDSCS.edu/current-students/student-success/test-center for the NDSCS Course Placement Policy and testing information. Students may be on an extended plan of study pending their course placement.
*Program Admission Requirements are subject to revision. Please check the department or program website under Program Admission Requirements for current information.
Award
Upon successful completion of the required courses, students will be awarded a certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree in HVAC/R Technology.