HVAC Career Path Program
Our career pathway to become an HVAC technician consists of both instruction and hands-on learning. The career pathway is broken into three separate modules:
- HVAC 1: Electricity and Motors & Controls with an OSHA 30 certification
- HVAC 2: Air Conditioning with an EPA 608 certification
- HVAC 3: Oil Heat with a NORA Bronze certification
Module 1 is a prerequisite for module 2 and 3. However, Module 2 and 3 do not have to be taken consecutively.
HVAC Module 1: Electricity and Motors & Controls with an OSHA 30 certification
The course begins with 10, 3-hour sessions, to provide the OSHA 30 curriculum before students start the HVAC 1 curriculum. HVAC 1 introduces students to electrical theory and provides them with a foundation to continue in the subsequent modules. After review of safety procedures, students will learn about AC/DC voltage, Ohms Law, wiring diagrams, basic control circuits, sensing devices and types of motors. The course will also cover how to interpret measurements and build foundational knowledge of tools and their usage in the field.
Classes are a combination of textbook/classwork and hands-on opportunities to build understanding of the entry level skills necessary in the field. Career Counselors will support students to learn about available careers in the field, develop resumes and interview skills and build professionalism throughout the course. Students should bring lineman’s pliers, screwdrivers, and wire strippers to each class after the first session.
Supplies needed for this course, available to purchase from Dutchess BOCES:
- Leviton 15 AMP 125-Volt-3-Wire Plug Orange
- Klein Tools 3/16 in. and 5/16 in, Hex Key Adapter for Refrigeration Wrench
- Klein Tools 3/16 in. & 5/16 in. Square x 1/4 in & 3/8 in. Square Ratcheting Refrigeration Wrench
- Gardner Bender Terminal Kit
- Defiant 150 Lumens LED Flashlight
- ProsKit 9.5 in. Crimper Pliers
- UEi Test Instruments Digital Pocket Thermometer (Model # PDT550)
- Husky Folding Lock-Back Utility Knife
- Woods 7in Side Cutting Pliers
- Eclipse Tools AWG 20-10 Precision Wire Stripper
HVAC Module 2: Air Conditioning with an EPA 608 certification
The class begins with reinforcing safety expectations in the HVAC field. Classes are a combination of textbook/classwork and hands-on opportunities to build understanding of the entry-level skills necessary in the field. Students will learn about residential and some commercial air conditioning equipment, the air conditioning cycle, and begin to identify problems and repairs. The environmental chapter explains how to reclaim and recycle refrigerants in compliance with the EPA, and personal and professional safety. Students who successfully complete this class will be eligible to take the EPA 608 certification exam.
Career Counselors will support students to learn about available careers in the field, develop resumes and interview skills and build professionalism throughout the course.
HVAC Module 3: Oil Heat with a NORA Bronze certification
After continued review of safety, students will be taught basics in the oil heating industry. This course will cover nozzle combustion, drafting and venting, and ignition systems, including the dangers of carbon monoxide. Students who successfully complete this class will be eligible to take the NORA certification exam to become a Bronze Level Oil Heat Technician.
Classes are a combination of textbook/classwork and hands-on opportunities to build understanding of the entry level skills necessary in the field. Career Counselors will support students to learn about available careers in the field, develop resumes and interview skills and build professionalism throughout the course.
To register or for more information about our HVAC Program, please contact a Career Counselor at 845-486-4800, ext. 6130 or email ali@dcboces.org