Introduction
Alabama, known as the Heart of Dixie, offers extensive opportunities for those in the heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. With a notable number of accredited HVAC programs, Alabama ranks highly in terms of educational resources for HVAC professionals. Various organizations within the state provide significant support to enhance the careers and educational journeys of HVAC workers.
The Associated Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Alabama (APHCC) stands out as a leading organization, offering a wide array of member benefits. These include training sessions, legal support, insurance discounts, and a quarterly publication called The Alabama Contractor. Additionally, APHCC provides continuing education (CE) courses online, such as a communication skills course and a comprehensive gas code course, which are crucial for maintaining professional credentials.
Another key organization, the Subcontractors Association of Alabama (SubAla), offers numerous resources to HVAC professionals. These resources include an electronic safety library, annual meetings, workers' compensation programs, and various exclusive member events. This broad support network ensures that HVAC professionals in Alabama have access to tools that foster career growth and development.
In Alabama, the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors licenses HVAC professionals. The role of an HVAC technician in the state involves a diverse set of tasks that require a strong understanding of HVAC systems. Technicians must be well-versed in theories such as the refrigeration cycle, heating principles, combustion, electrical theories, and air treatment. Moreover, HVAC technicians handling refrigerants must have the EPA Section 608 certification, which is a nationwide requirement.
This guide explores the career opportunities for aspiring HVAC technicians in Alabama, covering job growth projections, salary expectations, accredited training programs, and licensing requirements. With its comprehensive educational programs and robust professional support, Alabama is an excellent state for pursuing a career in HVAC.
Demand for HVAC Technicians in Alabama
The HVAC industry in Alabama is experiencing robust growth, with a projected 14 percent increase in job openings between 2016 and 2026, according to CareerOneStop. This trend aligns with the national forecast by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which anticipates a 13 percent rise in HVAC positions from 2018 to 2028.
Several factors contribute to this promising outlook. HVAC systems typically need replacement every 10 to 15 years, ensuring steady demand for new installations. The emphasis on energy efficiency and regulatory changes drives the need for system upgrades. Additionally, new building constructions, which require climate control systems, further boost demand for HVAC technicians.
Most HVAC workers, about 64 percent according to the BLS, are employed by plumbing, heating, and air conditioning contractors. These professionals often work standard hours but may also work evenings and weekends during peak seasons, such as the hot Alabama summers.
Despite the physical demands and risks, including lifting heavy equipment and handling electrical components, proper safety equipment and training can minimize these hazards. The thriving job market is evident from numerous listings on job sites like Indeed and Monster, showcasing opportunities across Alabama.
In summary, the HVAC industry in Alabama offers a lucrative and growing career path, driven by consistent demand for installations, maintenance, and system upgrades.
Schools in Alabama
Gadsden State Community College
1001 George Wallace Dr
Gadsden, Alabama 35903
Phone: (256) 549-8200
URL: www.gadsdenstate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 4352
- Total Faculty: 233
George C Wallace Community College-Dothan
1141 Wallace Drive
Dothan, Alabama 36303-9234
Phone: (334) 983-3521
URL: www.wallace.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 3832
- Total Faculty: 189
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
801 Main St NW
Hanceville, Alabama 35077-2000
Phone: (256) 352-8000
URL: www.wallacestate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a distant town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 5965
- Total Faculty: 313
George C Wallace State Community College-Selma
3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway
Selma, Alabama 36702-2808
Phone: (334) 876-9227
URL: www.wccs.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a distant town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 1860
- Total Faculty: 91
J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College
3421 Meridian St N
Huntsville, Alabama 35811
Phone: (256) 539-8161
URL: drakestate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 976
- Total Faculty: 61
J F Ingram State Technical College
5375 Ingram Rd
Deatsville, Alabama 36022
Phone: (334) 285-5177 x3249
URL: www.istc.edu/
This school is a < 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate. The campus is located in a large suburb with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 768
- Total Faculty: 87
Lawson State Community College
3060 Wilson Rd SW
Birmingham, Alabama 35221-1717
Phone: (205) 925-2515
URL: www.lawsonstate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 2919
- Total Faculty: 158
Lurleen B Wallace Community College
1000 Dannelly Blvd.
Andalusia, Alabama 36420-1224
Phone: (334) 222-6591
URL: www.lbwcc.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a fringe rural area with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 1929
- Total Faculty: 107
Northwest Shoals Community College
800 George Wallace Blvd
Muscle Shoals, Alabama 35661
Phone: (256) 331-5200
URL: www.nwscc.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 4032
- Total Faculty: 196
Bishop State Community College
351 North Broad Street
Mobile, Alabama 36603-5898
Phone: (251) 405-7000
URL: www.bishop.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 2968
- Total Faculty: 146
Shelton State Community College
9500 Old Greensboro Rd
Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405-8522
Phone: (205) 391-2211
URL: www.sheltonstate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 4166
- Total Faculty: 226
H Councill Trenholm State Community College
1225 Air Base Blvd
Montgomery, Alabama 36108-3199
Phone: (334) 420-4200
URL: www.trenholmstate.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 1984
- Total Faculty: 115
Bevill State Community College
1411 Indiana Avenue
Jasper, Alabama 35501
Phone: (205) 387-0511
URL: www.bscc.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a distant town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 3703
- Total Faculty: 177
Southern Union State Community College
750 Roberts St
Wadley, Alabama 36276
Phone: (256) 395-2211
URL: www.suscc.edu/
This school is a 2 year Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a remote rural area with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 4386
- Total Faculty: 250
Remington College-Mobile Campus
4368 DOWNTOWNER LOOP S
Mobile, Alabama 36609
Phone: (251) 343-8200
URL: www.remingtoncollege.edu/locations/mobile/
This school is a 2 year Private not-for-profit college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 255
- Total Faculty: 26
Fortis College
7033 Airport Blvd.
Mobile, Alabama 36608
Phone: (251) 344-1203 x3111
URL: www.fortis.edu/
This school is a less than 2 year Private for-profit college that offers One but less than two years certificate. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 232
Fortis College-Dothan
200 Vulcan Way
Dothan, Alabama 36303
Phone: (334) 677-2832
URL: www.fortiscollege.edu/
This school is a less than 2 year Private for-profit college that offers One but less than two years certificate. The campus is located in a small city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 127
Fortis College-Montgomery
3736 Atlanta Hwy
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
Phone: (334) 272-3857
URL: www.fortis.edu/
This school is a less than 2 year Private for-profit college that offers One but less than two years certificate. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 215
Fortis Institute-Birmingham
100 London Pkwy
Birmingham, Alabama 35211
Phone: (205) 940-7800 x4911
URL: www.fortis.edu/
This school is a 2 year Private for-profit college that offers One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree. The campus is located in a midsize city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 381
- Total Faculty: 42
HVAC Worker Salaries in Alabama
As of May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that HVAC mechanics and installers across the United States earn a median annual wage of $57,300. In Alabama, the median annual wage for HVAC professionals is $46,320. The wage percentiles for Alabama are as follows:
| Percentile | United States | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $37,270 | $30,120 |
| 25th | $44,720 | $36,150 |
| 50th (Median) | $57,300 | $46,320 |
| 75th | $73,650 | $60,230 |
| 90th | $84,250 | $70,980 |
While HVAC salaries in Alabama are generally lower than the national average, it is important to note that Alabama has a lower cost of living compared to many other states. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Alabama ranks as one of the most affordable states, which means that lower salaries can still go a long way.
In addition to base salaries, factors such as experience, education, and certifications can influence earnings. HVAC professionals with advanced certifications or extensive experience can expect higher wages. For example, obtaining the EPA Section 608 certification, which is required for handling refrigerants, can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
For more detailed and current information, you can refer to the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
HVAC Certification and Licensing in Alabama
To work as an HVAC technician in Alabama, individuals must obtain the necessary licenses and certifications. Here is a summary of the current requirements:
National Certifications
All HVAC professionals in the United States handling refrigerants must obtain the EPA Section 608 certification, which includes four subtypes: Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure appliances), Type III (low-pressure appliances), and Universal.
Other notable certifications include:
- HVAC Excellence: Green Awareness, Residential Heat Load Analysis, Heat Pump Service
- North American Technician Excellence (NATE): Air Conditioning Installation, Air Distribution, Oil Heating, Hydronics Gas
- Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES): EPA Section 608, Commercial Air Conditioning, Domestic Service, HVAC/R electrical
State Requirements
In Alabama, HVAC technicians must be licensed by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors. Requirements include:
- Completion of an approved HVAC or refrigeration program or 3,000 hours of supervised work experience
- Submission of a completed application and $190 fee
- Passing a comprehensive exam administered by Prov Testing Services (exam fee: $150)
- A $15,000 performance bond
- Annual completion of four hours of continuing education
- License renewal by December 31 each year with a $190 fee
Alabama also honors licenses from Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee through reciprocity agreements.
For more details, visit the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors.