Introduction
HVAC technicians play a vital role in helping New Mexico residents manage the state's temperature extremes. With summer temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees and winter temperatures dipping well below freezing, climate control is essential for comfort. Complex and sometimes costly climate control systems require skilled professionals for installation and routine maintenance. This demand makes New Mexico an attractive place to start a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
HVAC workers in New Mexico receive support from various professional organizations and unions operating throughout the state. The Mechanical Contractors’ Association of New Mexico, Inc. (MCA of NM) represents HVAC workers, fostering partnerships within the mechanical industry. MCA of NM offers continuing education, networking opportunities, professional advocacy, and more to its members.
Another significant organization is the United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 412 (UA Local 412). Chartered in 1910, UA Local 412 has long represented industry workers' rights across the state. The union provides an apprenticeship program for those looking to develop their skills and pursue a career in HVAC. Members also receive access to pension benefits upon retirement, reflecting the union's commitment to its affiliates.
Demand for HVAC Technicians in New Mexico
The HVAC industry is robust both in New Mexico and across the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2023, there were 379,200 HVAC mechanics and installers in the U.S., earning an average annual wage of $58,980. Prospective HVAC workers in New Mexico will find that HVAC is a lucrative and high-growth industry.
The BLS projects that positions for HVAC mechanics and installers will grow by 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, matching the average growth rate across all U.S. occupations during that period.
New Mexico is expected to see even higher growth in demand for HVAC technicians. According to Projections Central (2024), HVAC positions in New Mexico are anticipated to increase by 12 percent from 2022 to 2032.
Several factors drive this growth. Virtually all new buildings in New Mexico require the installation of climate control systems by trained technicians. These systems also need regular maintenance and generally need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. Additionally, the laws and regulations governing climate control systems are continually evolving, creating a demand for educated HVAC technicians who can ensure compliance with these changes.
Schools in New Mexico
Central New Mexico Community College
525 Buena Vista Dr SE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87106
Phone: (505) 224-3000
URL: www.cnm.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, Two but less than 4 years certificate. The campus is located in a large city with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 19095
- Total Faculty: 818
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
2800 N. Sonoma Ranch Blvd.
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88011
Phone: (575) 528-7000
URL: dacc.nmsu.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: 6662
- Total Faculty: 427
Clovis Community College
417 Schepps Blvd
Clovis, New Mexico 88101-8381
Phone: (800) 769-1409
URL: www.clovis.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 town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 2303
- Total Faculty: 113
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus
52 University Blvd
Roswell, New Mexico 88203-6000
Phone: (575) 624-7000
URL: www.roswell.enmu.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, Two but less than 4 years certificate. The campus is located in a remote town with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 1856
- Total Faculty: 97
Santa Fe Community College
6401 Richards Ave
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87508-4887
Phone: (505) 428-1000
URL: www.sfcc.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 suburb with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 3266
- Total Faculty: 273
HVAC Worker Salaries in New Mexico
The HVAC industry is not only growing but also one of the highest paying fields for individuals with one to two years of postsecondary training.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2023, HVAC mechanics and installers nationwide had an annual average salary of $58,980. In New Mexico, HVAC professionals earned an average annual salary of $51,320.
Below are the detailed salary percentiles for HVAC professionals in the United States compared to New Mexico (BLS May 2023):
| Percentile | United States | New Mexico |
|---|---|---|
| Number of HVAC professionals employed | 379,200 | 1,380 |
| Annual mean wage | $58,980 | $51,320 |
| 10th percentile | $37,200 | $32,100 |
| 25th percentile | $45,500 | $38,500 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $52,920 | $46,200 |
| 75th percentile | $67,150 | $55,780 |
| 90th percentile | $84,380 | $65,920 |
According to Payscale (March 2024), which relies on self-reported salaries, the percentiles among HVAC workers nationwide are as follows:
- 10th percentile: $31,000
- 50th percentile (median): $47,948
- 90th percentile: $75,000
HVAC Certification and Licensing in New Mexico
In New Mexico, HVAC technicians who handle refrigerants are required to maintain active EPA Section 608 Certification. This certification has four subtypes, varying by the type of equipment serviced:
- Type 1: Small appliances
- Type 2: High-pressure appliances
- Type 3: Low-pressure appliances
- Type 4: Universal
Additionally, HVAC technicians in New Mexico can pursue skill-specific certifications, which can be awarded by organizations such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and HVAC Excellence. These certifications are not mandatory but can be beneficial for employment prospects.
To learn more, visit the main HVAC certifications page.
All HVAC contractors in New Mexico are required to obtain licensure before beginning any related project. To do so, HVAC technicians must pass two exams: one on business and law and another on the HVAC trade.
Additionally, prospective HVAC contractors must submit the following:
- An application verifying their previous experience in the field
- A certificate of competence
- A bond between $500 and $5,000, an audited financial statement, or other collateral
- An application fee of $30
HVAC technicians working with ventilation systems using natural gas fittings must obtain additional licensure, which has similar requirements. It is crucial for HVAC contractors to acquire the necessary licenses to comply with state laws, making thorough research on credentialing essential before starting new projects.