HVAC Trade Schools in Louisville, KY

Demand for HVAC and HVAC/R technicians is growing nationwide. According to the BLS (May 2019), openings for HVAC mechanics and installers are expected to increase 4 percent nationally between 2019 and 2029. That is as fast as the average 4 percent projected for all occupations in the U.S.

Kentucky is predicted to need new technicians at a slightly faster rate. Projections Central (2020)—a data organization partnered with the US Department of Labor—reported that there would be a 4.6 percent increase in HVAC positions across Kentucky between 2018 and 2028.

Several factors contribute to the growth of the HVAC and HVAC/R industry. The primary consideration is the increasing sophistication of climate control systems and the need to replace, retrofit, or upgrade older systems. Industries that rely on technology, such as those driving growth in Louisville, often require specialized climate-controlled facilities. The contemporary emphasis on energy efficiency and reducing pollution also contributes to an increased demand for new installations.

Technicians who are computer- and electronics-literate, and those with excellent troubleshooting skills, typically enjoy the best job prospects. Technicians who specialize in new installations may experience seasonal unemployment if construction declines, although that is not anticipated to happen in Louisville in the immediate future. Maintenance and repair work can be more stable, as business owners and homeowners depend on their climate-control systems year-round and must keep them in good working order regardless of economic conditions.

Also, it’s important to note that HVAC workers incur a higher than average rate of illness and injury than other U.S. occupations (BLS May 2019). This is due to the relatively physical nature of the work, which may expose them to burns, muscle strains, and other maladies. That said, with the proper training and safety equipment, these problems can generally be kept to a minimum.

There’s no shortage of opportunities for qualified HVAC professionals in Louisville. As proof of point, Indeed (Oct. 2020) had 90 relevant job postings in the Louisville area, including openings at Bellarmine University, Sears Home Services, Louisville Metro Government, Lennox International, Walmart, and Conagra Brands, to name a few. Monster (Oct. 2020) also had 165 postings at places such as BrightView, Jones Lang LaSalle, Hertz Corporation, and ALCO Doors. In sum, there’s expected to be a high demand in this field in Louisville in years to come.

In the past, HVAC and HVAC/R technicians began their careers as helpers and learned the trade through hands-on training. It is still possible to do so today, but many workers now attend classes or participate in an apprenticeship program.

The Kentucky Division of Apprenticeship oversees the local apprenticeship system. Registered apprenticeships are voluntary. The role of the Division is to assist in developing programs and standards. Their FAQ contains details of current programs and participants. Certificates of completion are given to apprentices who complete apprenticeships.

The Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Service Technicians of the United Association Local 502 sponsors an apprenticeship program in Louisville. The program takes five years to complete. Students spend a minimum of 246 hours a year in formal classroom training at Ivy Tech Community College. They also spend 1,800 to 2,000 hours on on-the-job training each year. Graduates receive an associate degree in applied science and journey-level status. There is no cost to the student for the program.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires technicians who work with refrigerants to obtain EPA Section 608 Certification, which includes passing an exam on the safe handling of these environmentally destructive chemicals. There are four types of certifications according to the systems on which technicians work:

• For servicing small appliances (Type I)
• For servicing or disposing of high-pressure appliances, except small appliances and motor vehicle ACs (Type II)
• For servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances (Type III)
• For servicing all types of equipment (Universal)

Practice exams are available online.

Technicians may obtain additional training and certifications from industry organizations, which also offer Section 608 testing and certification. These include:

• Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES): Their mission is to provide opportunities for enhanced technical competence by offering comprehensive, cutting-edge education and certification to the HVAC/R industry.
• North American Technician Excellence (NATE): Their certification tests represent real-world working knowledge of HVAC/R systems.
• HVAC Excellence: Their exams and certifications are intended to validate that an individual has retained knowledge in a specific area of the HVAC/R industry.

Details are available on their websites.

As a final note, the Commonwealth of Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings & Construction requires HVAC professionals to obtain a license. These professionals can be at any stage in their career, including as apprentices, limited HVAC duct mechanic journeymen, limited HVAC installer mechanic journeymen, HVAC journeymen, and master HVAC contractors. All applications must include a recent photo of the applicant, and journeymen must certify that they have not defaulted on a school loan.

Apprentice registration requires the signatures of the supervisory master technician and licensed contractor. Licensing for journeymen requires proof of experience and a passing score on the business and law exam. Master contractors must submit evidence of work experience, a passing score on the business and law exam, and proof of liability insurance for $50,000. Other requirements may vary for each category. Apprentices are not charged a fee for registration. All other licensees must pay a fee. Licenses are renewed annually.

Additionally, anyone conducting business in Louisville must pay an occupational license tax. The fee is based on percentages charged by the city and the county on gross business receipts. Applicants must comply with state licensing requirements.

All HVAC professionals in the Louisville area are advised to check with local government offices to ensure they have all the necessary licenses and permits prior to beginning work.