Introduction
From the expansive plains to the Rocky Mountains, from Yellowstone National Park and Old Faithful to the Grand Tetons, Wyoming features dramatic landscapes and rapidly changing weather conditions. Seasonal extremes of hailstorms, blizzards, high winds, cold, and summer heat waves often keep Wyomingites indoors. Heating, venting, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for maintaining comfort in these conditions.
Two local organizations provide support to the HVAC industry. The Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Wyoming promotes all aspects of the construction industry, offering training and safety programs, including those related to HVAC for contractors and their employees. They network with other associations and industry leaders. Additionally, Cheyenne is home to the International Association of Professional Contractors, a trade association serving the construction trades, including HVAC. National organizations also provide support, marketing, networking, and training through online venues.
Demand for HVAC Technicians in Wyoming
The demand for HVAC technicians continues to grow nationwide. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023, the number of HVAC job openings is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average growth rate for all professions (3 percent).
Several factors contribute to the growth of the HVAC industry:
- New Construction: The installation of climate control systems in new buildings.
- Complex Systems: Continually evolving HVAC systems that require up-to-date technical skills.
- Energy Efficiency: A focus on reducing pollution and improving energy efficiency.
Additionally, older systems must be retrofitted or replaced to meet current standards. HVAC and HVAC-R technicians in Wyoming can work on commercial equipment in hospitals, offices, schools, and stores, as well as residential systems. Equipment may be located outdoors, necessitating repairs in adverse weather conditions. Indoor conditions may be equally unpleasant when heating or cooling equipment stops working, forcing technicians into small or cramped positions. Electrical shocks and injuries related to moving heavy equipment contribute to the high injury rates experienced by HVAC technicians.
The BLS (2023) reports that 67 percent of HVAC-R technicians work for contractors, 8 percent are self-employed, and the remaining workers are employed by schools or retail and wholesale organizations. Technicians usually work full-time, with overtime hours during peak seasons.
Schools in Wyoming
Laramie County Community College
1400 E College Dr
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82007-3299
Phone: (307) 778-5222 x1357
URL: www.lccc.wy.edu/
This school is a 4 year primarily associate's Public college that offers Less than one year certificate, One but less than two years certificate|Associate's degree|Bachelor's degree. The campus is located in a small suburb with campus housing not offered.
- Total Student Population: 3770
- Total Faculty: 278
HVAC Worker Salaries in Wyoming
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2022, HVAC-R mechanics and installers nationally receive an annual mean wage of $57,460. Wyoming technicians earn an annual mean wage of $56,530, slightly below the national average. The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC 2023) states that Wyoming is the 19th most affordable state in the country. This lower cost of living means that even a lower-than-average salary will go further in Wyoming compared to costlier nearby states like Colorado and Montana.
Here are the annual salary prospects for HVAC professionals nationally compared to Wyoming:
| Percentile | United States | Wyoming |
|---|---|---|
| Number of HVAC Professionals Employed | 374,770 | 420 |
| Annual Mean Wage | $57,460 | $56,530 |
| 10th Percentile | $36,170 | $39,350 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,100 | $48,750 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $51,390 | $57,010 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,630 | $60,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $82,630 | $77,960 |
Another data source, PayScale (January 2024), which relies on self-reported salaries, shows the following percentiles for HVAC workers nationwide:
- 10th Percentile: $35,000
- 50th Percentile (Median): $54,850
- 90th Percentile: $83,000
HVAC Certification and Licensing in Wyoming
Federal law requires all technicians working with refrigerants to obtain the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Section 608 Certification. Certification requires passing exams on the safe handling of refrigerants. Four levels of certifications are available, based on the size and type of equipment:
- Type I: Small appliances
- Type II: High-pressure appliances
- Type III: Low-pressure appliances
- Universal: All types of equipment
Technicians may obtain additional training and certifications from industry organizations. These include, but are not limited to:
- Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES): Certified instructors teach courses available online; technicians can study basic and advanced HVAC and HVAC-R principles.
- North American Technician Excellence (NATE): Training and certification in HVAC and HVAC-R knowledge areas.
- HVAC Excellence: Dedicated to improving HVAC technician competence through training and certification.
As a final note, the State of Wyoming does not require HVAC or HVAC-R licensing, although municipal credentialing and permits may vary. Counties and cities are allowed to set HVAC certification and licensing requirements, and most of them do. Additionally, electrical permits may be required if HVAC technicians lay wiring for systems.