Computer and Network Systems Technician Training Program at IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs.
Are you a people person who excels at problem solving and enjoys computer technology? Perhaps you’re thinking about a career in the computer technology field. Computer systems technicians and administrators are the backbone of a company’s successful intranet and local computer network system. Today’s companies rely heavily on network technicians to function smoothly in their daily operations.
The first step is finding the right Computer Systems Technician training program for you. To accomplish that, you might want to know what kind of skills you can learn in a good computer technology program. A good Computer Systems Technician training program will teach you 3 important skill sets:
Skill #1 – Evaluate network and system performance
A major part of an Information Technology (IT) Professional’s job is to evaluate network and system performance. They will analyze and, if necessary, tweak the system to ensure optimal performance.
A good Computer Systems Technician training program will utilize hands-on training in a real-world setting to teach students the skills necessary to becoming a computer network systems technician. Employers highly value technicians that come into their careers knowing what they need to know and being prepared to jump right in.
For example, IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs provides hands-on training for computer technician professionals, and they teach their students these skill sets:
Build, upgrade, maintain, diagnose and troubleshoot PC hardware and software.
Design, implement, manage and implement network infrastructures.
Install, configure, administer and manage windows server systems.
Operate and administer computer systems running on Microsoft Windows and UNIX/ Linux platforms, including writing scripts in a shell environment.
Understand network security fundamentals; apply to network and computer systems.
Skill #2 – Perform regular maintenance to ensure that networks operate correctly
IT Professionals use their skills to analyze, troubleshoot, and evaluate network and system performance to keep everything running as it should. They also use these skills to sort out issues and problems when everything is not running as it should. IT Professionals and Specialists play a vital role in the management of an IT infrastructure, on which organizations now rely for operational success.
SKILL #3 – Communicate effectively with other administrators and co-workers
Good communication with your co-workers can be the make it or break it aspect of your career. At IntelliTec, we talk about the ways to communicate to those you serve in your position and how best to follow up as needed.
In Summary
If those skills peak your interest, consider a new career as a Computer Systems Technician , a career that opens many opportunities to explore and grow in the world of technology. As a CompTIA Authorized Academy, IntelliTec offers a certificate program that can be completed in as little as 10.5 months in both our Colorado Springs and Albuquerque campus locations.
This program provides the necessary training for students to properly prepare for CompTIA certifications, which are globally recognized for showcasing IT skill, particularly in the 0-2 year career space. Students have the opportunity to obtain six different certifications (four CompTIA, one Microsoft, one LPI), propelling them well ahead of their uncertified peers. Contact an admissions representative today to begin the process of starting this exciting new career.
Sources
“Computer Technician Degree and Training Programs.” Education Portal: Computer Technician Degree and Training Programs. Education Portal, n.d. Web. 9 Feb. 2015. http://www.Education-portal.com/articles/Computer_Technician_Degree_and_Training_Programs.html
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Computer Support Specialists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm (visited February 9, 2015).
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm (visited February 9, 2015).
“Computer & Network Systems Technician Training.” IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs. IntelliTec College, n.d. Web. 2 Feb. 2015. https://www.intelliteccollege.com/career-training-programs/technical-trades/computer-network-technician.php
Article written by: Kaufman, Doug. Engine Builder Magazine, 2017
When it was launched in 2012, the Performance Engine Builder of the Year competition was Engine Builder magazine’s attempt to celebrate the unsung heroes of the racing world.
“After all, the driver, the crew chief, the team owner – heck even the driver’s dog – each get more TV time and fan recognition than the engine builder,” explains Engine Builder publisher/editor Doug Kaufman. Kaufman says there is an old adage about winning races: “To finish first, you must first finish. A less familiar adage is ‘You won’t even start the race without an engine.’
“And even less known but even more important is this,” Kaufman says: “If you don’t know how to build an engine you’re not going anywhere.”
To honor his commitment to Engine Builder’s third law, Dave Gorman, an Automotive Technician instructor at IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs, CO, was named the runner up in the magazine’s competition sponsored by Federal-Mogul Motorparts’ brands Speed-Pro POWERFORGED Pistons and Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets.
Dave Gorman, IntelliTec College High-Performance Instructor
“I am honored to be selected as the runner-up in the 2016 Performance Engine Builder of the Year supported by Engine Builder magazine. To be one of the few automotive colleges to receive such an award is something I am very proud of,” Gorman says.
The High Performance Engine Building Program at IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs started many years ago. This is Gorman’s 20th year teaching automotive technology with the last 10 years being at IntelliTec College. Early in his career he saw a void in the automotive educational system, specifically in the high performance engine capacity.
“I looked at some curriculum at some post-secondary automotive schools around the country that were teaching high performance engines and it was very generic with no depth,” Gorman says. “No scientific analysis or logic was being taught on when and why to install a certain high performance part. So I developed a 12-week HP program specifically on disassembly, design, blueprint and re-assembly, then fire-up with mostly domestic V8 engines that we have in-house on our running engine stands.”
Gorman runs a 12-week program on disassembly, design, blueprint, re-assembly and fire up on domestic V8s. He emphasizes the importance of supporting the future of this industry by working with today’s young people.
The students learn how to calculate component selection through science analysis, logic and physical facts along with the ability to design and build 1000+ horsepower engines.
“One of my favorite engine builds was a car I drag raced for 27 years – A 1973 Plymouth Road Runner GTX with a supercharged-alcohol injected 440 that produced 1155 HP with a flat tappet camshaft and Edelbrock street heads. The heavy Plymouth ran mid 8-second 1/4 mile times @ 162 mph at sea level.”
As expected with many teachers/instructors, the thrill of the job for Gorman is receiving positive feedback from the student body.
“The future of the high performance world is only getting better,” he says. “You MUST be educated on designing and building high performance engines if the vehicle in question is going to perform up to expectations.”
As part of his award, Federal-Mogul Motorparts and Engine Builder magazine donated a critical piece of test equipment to Gorman’s program.
Colorado Springs Automotive Technician students learn on High Performance cars.
“This is a rapidly changing industry,” explains Kaufman. “We are proud to support Dave Gorman’s and IntelliTec College’s commitment to equipping the next generation of passionate engine experts with the skills to be successful.”
Kaufman, Doug. “Dave Gorman, 2016 Performance Engine Builder of the Year Runner Up.” Engine Builder Magazine Jan. 2017: 16. Web.
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It’s difficult to get by in the world today. Many people feel stuck in dead-end fast food or retail jobs. Others struggle through backbreaking manual labor just to make ends meet. Maybe you couldn’t afford to go to school at a major university and never got a proper start in life, and now you’re wondering if there’s any hope left for you.
Cosmetology school hair stylist.
Jobs for Creative People: 10 Things You Need to Know About Cosmetology
If you’re a creative soul, you’re in luck. There are some great jobs for creative people out there, and cosmetology is one of them. Do you have a passion for beauty and personal style? You could become a professional cosmetologist and have a fulfilling career where you can pursue your interests in hair, makeup, nails, or skin care.
Cosmetology is an excellent line of work for those seeking creative and caring careers. Many people don’t consider cosmetology jobs because they think they require too much schooling, but it’s actually possible to complete your training, get your license and begin working in a little over a year.
1. What Does a Cosmetologist Do?
Cosmetologists offer services related to beauty, grooming and personal care. This includes things like:
Haircuts, styling and coloring
Weaves or extensions
Nail art or maintenance
Skincare and makeup
Spa treatments
Most cosmetologists have a specific niche that they focus on, but some choose to work in more than one area. You could become a nail artist or choose to devote yourself to skincare. In the modern era of social media, you might even become well known in your niche.
Cosmetology school nail specialist
2. Where Can a Cosmetologist Work?
You’ll have a variety of options, such as:
Privately owned spas and salons
Chain salons found in malls or shopping centers
Cruise ships and resorts
Senior-living facilities
Film or television studios, theater companies or music productions
Manage your own salon or booth that you either rent or operate out of your home
3. What Schooling is Required to Become a Cosmetologist?
To begin your cosmetology training, you’ll need at least a high school diploma or GED. Most cosmetology schools require an average of 1400 to 1600 hours of training, which will include learning about a variety of techniques. Some programs include specialized training for a certain area of cosmetology, such as nails or skincare.
At IntelliTec College, for example, you can expect to earn your Cosmetology certificate in as few as 15 months. During that time, you’ll learn and practice your cosmetology skills hands-on in the school salon where you will work with real clients. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in community projects where you’ll get to further practice your skills and help those in need. This will give you the real-life experience required to do well on the Colorado State Board of Cosmetology exam.
4. How Much Money Can You Make at Cosmetology Jobs?
Your income as a cosmetologist will greatly depend on three things:
Where you work
How much you choose to work
How dedicated you are to advancing in your career
The flexibility of this field allows you to go in a number of directions and essentially earn as much as you see fit. For example, some cosmetologists choose to create their own line of beauty products to go along with the services they offer.
In general, cosmetologists can expect to make between $17,000 and $47,000 a year. According to CareerOneStop, in 2015 the median wage for cosmetologists was $23,660 a year (or $11.38 per hour).
When looking at wages for this career – keep in mind these points:
The median wage is the wage that half of all cosmetologists earned more than that amount and half earned less.
The amount you earn is likely to go up the longer you’ve been working, so don’t get discouraged at the numbers on the lower end of the spectrum.
Consider that the take-home earnings of a cosmetologist can actually be more when you add in tips/gratuity from clients.
If you plan on working on Colorado, you might be interested to know that cosmetologists in the Boulder area made the most money in the state, averaging around $31,000 a year. However, there might also be more competition in that area. Cosmetologists in Pueblo and Grand Junction made between $21,000 and $26,000 in 2013. (Source: “Cosmetology-License.com”)
The need for haircuts and beauty treatments will never go away, which means you’ll always be able to find work if you need it.
5. What are the Benefits of a Career in Cosmetology?
One of the best things about choosing this line of work is that the demand is expected to remain relatively high. People want and need to look good whether the economy is thriving or struggling. The need for haircuts and beauty treatments will never go away, which means you’ll always be able to find work if you need it.
In fact, according to the United States Department of Labor, cosmetology jobs are expected to grow up to 13 percent by 2022, with hairstylists and skin-care specialists being in high demand. As of 2013, over 11,000 cosmetologists were working in the state of Colorado, and those numbers will rise with the growing population and booming economy.
Other benefits of this career include:
You can choose a variety of niches to get into.
You can choose to have a flexible work schedule. Many people in this career work full time, but part-time positions are also common.
If you own a salon you may have longer hours, but you can set your own hours.
Salons are usually the busiest during evenings and weekends, but that may free you up for longer mornings at home.
You can enjoy a high level of freedom and independence at work without being told what to do by a supervisor.
You can choose to work for yourself or a bigger salon or spa.
You can earn a competitive income without the need for a four-year college degree.
You have options for growth or side income, such selling or creating your own line of skincare products.
6. Are There Any Negatives of Cosmetology Jobs?
There are negatives to any career. If there weren’t, we would all be doing the same thing! The truth is that different careers are suited to different people. Some things that could be considered negatives about this career path typically include:
You’ll usually be on your feet all day.
Clients can be difficult, and sometimes they have a hard time explaining what they want.
If you anger a client by doing something they don’t like with their appearance, it can’t always be fixed.
The job is very social, which might be considered a negative if you’re an introverted person.
If you attempt to work at a higher-paying salon, the competition can be fierce and sometimes difficult.
Most cosmetologists work from late morning to evening on Tuesdays through Saturdays.
7. What is Everyday Life Like for a Cosmetologist?
There is a lot of flexibility with this career. Most cosmetologists work from late morning to evening on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Salons are typically closed Sundays and Mondays, but it greatly depends.
In general, the life of a cosmetologist can be very fulfilling. You’ll be spending time chatting as you work, which makes this one of the best careers for social people. Along with being a friend and confidant to your clients, you’ll also be someone who helps change their lives.
Appearance can affect the way a person feels about themselves, and at the end of the day, you’ll rest easy knowing you helped improve someone’s self-esteem. Not everyone gets to feel that way about their jobs.
8. Is Cosmetology Right for You?
You shouldn’t get into cosmetology simply for an interest in hair or makeup. There’s a big difference between doing your own hair at home and working on clients as a job. Cosmetology is ideal for self-starters who are motivated to handle all aspects of the business.
You’ll need to be capable of:
Staying organized, scheduling appointments and handling all jobs in a timely manner.
Keeping it together when things get stressful.
Handling difficult clients and maintaining good communication skills to help soothe conflicts.
Being social and friendly even when you aren’t in a great mood.
Looking stylish and presentable at all times.
Paying attention to the latest trends in hair, beauty and makeup.
Dedicating yourself to working on advancing your skill set for the rest of your career.
Traveling to trade shows and conventions related to your niche.
Comfortably touching and handling clients in an appropriate physical manner.
Selling products and services to your clients by speaking positively about them.
9. Is There Any Specific Advice for Succeeding in Cosmetology?
One of the most important aspects of cosmetology is confidence. You’ll need it every step of the way, from the first day you walk into your cosmetology training course to any random day years into your career. Clients want to trust someone to make them look and feel great, and they won’t develop that trust if you doubt yourself.
10. Other Tips for Cosmetologists
Treat every client like the most important person you’ve ever worked with.
Be a good listener.
Be a strong salesperson. It’s an incredibly important part of this career.
Be aware that etiquette and professionalism are everything.
Know how to leave your problems at the door when you come to work and maintain a positive attitude no matter what’s going on at home.
Make an effort from the beginning to develop systems that help you become as efficient as possible.
Look into ways to stay up-to-date with current beauty trends and continue your education. This can include watching free Youtube videos or signing up for courses offered by your employer or a beauty product line like Matrix.
In Summary: Get Started with Your Cosmetology Career
If you found this article motivating and are now considering a career in cosmetology, contact IntelliTec College today. We offer Cosmetology career training programs in both Grand Junction and Pueblo, Colorado. Our team of dedicated and passionate instructors is excited to help you get started in a thriving career.
About IntelliTec Colleges
IntelliTec Colleges provide hands-on career training in Colorado and New Mexico with Associate (Occupational Studies) Degrees and Certificate programs designed to be completed in 9 to 18 months. Campus locations include Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction and Pueblo. IntelliTec provides a supportive learning environment with small classes sizes and caring instructors. Learn how you can improve your life with a meaningful career by requesting information at www.IntelliTec.edu or calling 1-800-748-2282. IntelliTec Colleges are accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Sources
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Barbers, Hairdressers, and Cosmetologists – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/barbers-hairdressers-and-cosmetologists.htm (visited December 25, 2016).
National Center for O*NET Development. 39-5012.00. O*NET OnLine – https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/39-5012.00
Albuquerque students at the SkillsUSA Leadership training enjoying lunch at the conference.
SkillsUSA Promotes Occupational and Leadership Skills Through Competition and Community Service Projects
SkillsUSA empowers its members to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. It improves the quality of America’s skilled workforce through a structured program of citizenship, leadership, employability, technical and professional skills training.
SkillsUSA programs include local, state, and national competitions in which students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills. At the annual national-level SkillsUSA Championships, more than 6,000 students compete in 100 occupational and leadership skill areas. SkillsUSA programs also help to establish industry standards for job skill training in the lab and classroom as well as promoting community service.
Albuquerque ITC just finishing up the first community service project down in Ruidoso, New Mexico
SkillsUSA IntelliTec Albuquerque Chapter Performs Community Service Project in Ruidoso, New Mexico
At IntelliTec College Albuquerque campus our students have just finished the steps necessary to receive their Chapter charter. In late October 2016, the chapter officers attended a state led leadership conference which aided in building their knowledge and growing their skills as professionals. The officer team returned from their conference and took the knowledge they had learned into their next meeting.
The result was the establishment of their first community service project, a perfect opportunity to use the student’s leadership skills to serve the community and practice their technical skills repairing vehicles. The project was in Ruidoso, New Mexico where a small camp had a dozen or so automotive related projects that desperately needed completion. Albuquerque ITC answered the call and was able to accomplish almost every task at hand. They were so efficient they also had time to relax a bit.
Many projects were completed including:
installing a new muffler and tailpipe on a JCB 214 Backhoe, diagnosing a bad alternator, and fixing the wiring.
Students repaired a draw on the battery on one vehicle and a repaired another that was overheating.
Another vehicle had the fuel pump replaced and two others were diagnosed with bad cam sensors and repaired.
Overall we put in 108 man hours and saved the camp over $4000. They were immensely grateful for the student’s effort and indicated they would love to have them back anytime. The students were very professional and all had a great time.
Future Plans for SkillsUSA IntelliTec Albuquerque Chapter
In the upcoming months, our students will prepare themselves for the New Mexico State Leadership and Skills Competition, a test of each students’ level of knowledge in their field of study. Wherever they place, they will build greatly needed skills to succeed as students and professionals and force their competitors to perform at their best. The goal is to win Gold at the state level and move on to the National level.
There is much more to come from the SkillsUSA IntelliTec Albuquerque chapter. Through the next few months and years to come I expect this organization to celebrate the opportunities and challenges that may arise. We will see many triumphs and some failures, but ultimately we will learn from both.
More About SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce and helping each individual student to excel. The organization focuses on serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations, including health occupations and for further education. More than 300,000 students and advisors join SkillsUSA annually, organized into more than 18,000 sections and 52 state and territorial association and SkillsUSA has served more than 12.2 million members since its founding in 1965.
About IntelliTec College in Albuquerque
IntelliTec College in Albuquerque, NM offers hands-on career training for automotive technicians. This program awards an associate of occupational studies degree that is designed to be completed in 18 months. IntelliTec provides a supportive learning environment with small classes sizes and caring instructors. Learn how you can improve your life with a meaningful career by requesting information at www.IntelliTec.edu or calling 505-508-5225. IntelliTec College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Relaxed woman receiving a shoulder massage.
Have you ever considered getting a job as massage therapist? Whether you have or not, now may be the right time to seriously consider a massage therapy career.
Whether you’re starting your career or switching from another line of work, the opportunity is now ripe to begin a new, prosperous career in massage therapy. Many massage clinics professional sports centers are hiring massage therapists right now.
Why is the Demand for Massage Therapy Growing?
Massage Therapy services are growing in demand for a number of reasons. According to the United States Department of Labor:
Massage is becoming more accepted and respected for wellness management and pain treatment as more states are requiring standards and licensing for therapists.
Many healthcare providers are beginning to provide massage as treatment to their patients.
Professionals athletes use massage for pain and injury management.
Many clinics are being franchised, thus lowering the cost of a massage and making it affordable for more people.
Hot rock massage therapy
A Massage Therapist Career: Historical and Respected
Massage therapy reaches back centuries, and it has always been a strongly people-oriented profession. It is a tool for healing the human body naturally, by helping it to release tension and heal itself.
The first records of massage therapy originate from China and Egypt and has spread throughout the world, because its benefits impacted so many people in a positive way.
Moreover, it has been found that massage therapy does indeed decrease stress and release certain chemicals in our brains that are important for mental health.
Massage Therapists Have an Opportunity to Work in Professional Sports Settings
Massage therapy careers are in unexpected places. One of the biggest roles that massage therapy plays in society is in sports. Professional athletes turn to massage therapists every day, and the assistance of such a therapist is standard.
Sports massage therapists are employed in nearly every professional sporting community in the world, thus offering the option (though not the requirement) to travel for work. If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling the world, a sports massage therapy career could be exactly what you’ve wanted.
Young woman getting a back massage from a massage therapist.
Massage Therapist Jobs Available Now – Clinics are Hiring Massage Therapists
After getting formal training in massage therapy, this exciting range of choices can be open to you—at a time when therapists are more needed than ever.
In Colorado, healthcare professionals are generally in high demand. Colorado’s market has a lot of room for non-franchise therapists.
Did you know?
Colorado is also one of the top 5 highest-paying states for massage therapists.
Employment of massage therapists in Colorado is expected to increase 38% from 2014-2024 – resulting in 360 new job openings per year.
In 2016, Colorado ranks second among all states in their demand of massage therapists: there are 432 residents in Colorado for every massage therapist. Hawaii ranks first in demand, with 222 residents per therapist.
A nationwide shortage of therapists means that changing careers could also be a chance to change location. Ever considered living in another state? Some states have an extremely high demand for massage therapists, like New York, who has more than 1400 citizens for every therapist! That’s nearly 500 higher than the national average of 944.
Many massage therapists now travel on-site to their clients. This is called mobile massage.
“Mobile Massage” – A New, Growing Trend in Massage Therapy
Mobile massage can be an opportunity for therapists to grow their businesses. People are requiring massage services now more than ever. However, for various reasons, they don’t have the time to travel to the massage therapist, or they aren’t physically able to do so, on a regular basis. Some clients are elderly or disabled. Others are just too busy working.
Massage therapists across the nation have recognized this hurdle for potential clients, and they are now performing massage therapy sessions on-site to theirs clients: at their home, nursing home, or place of business. This trend is being called traveling, mobile, or outcall massage therapy.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, “The number of massages given in a client’s home, office, or in a corporate setting jumped from 39 percent in 2010 to 50 percent in [in 2012].”
New massage therapy graduates should keep in mind that they are encouraged to work for someone right out of college instead of going straight into owning their own business.
People Often Change Careers for a More Meaningful Life
Changing careers is more common than you might think. The average person changes careers more than 5 times! Different careers are now more accessible than ever before; thus, many people take advantage and explore many different jobs and opportunities.
People are starting to seek meaning in their careers—they would rather do what they are truly passionate about, and this has spurred many people, young and old, to pursue their dreams.
With schools like IntelliTec College, training to become a massage therapist is a fast, fun, and affordable process—and it’s far more hands-on than many traditional university degrees.
IntelliTec College massage therapy students in training
Open the Door to a Massage Therapist Career and a New Life While Demand is High.
Massage therapy is a time-honored profession that is focused on people. You could be helping people every day you go to work with the healing power of massage in one of these ways, and more:
Physical Rehabilitation
Stress Relief
Sports Medicine
Treatment of Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, and Headache
Myofascial Release
Neuromuscular Therapy
Tai Massage
A massage therapy career is available and accessible to you today. Schools like IntelliTec College of Pueblo and IntelliTec College in Grand Junction provide hands-on training for massage therapists and are here to support and facilitate your journey into this exciting and rewarding new career.
Have you graduated from high school and wondering what you should do next?
If you know you need more education than a high school diploma, but you don’t want to go to a 4-year college, then a career college may be the right option for you!
Did you know you can train for a rewarding career in less than two years – while also getting your Associate’s (Occupational) degree or certificate? Yes you can!
Top 5 Reasons to Further Your Education at a Career CollegeHVAC and HVACR technicians are in high demand. In fact, in Colorado, more than 1,000 new HVAC job openings are expected to be added by 2017.
Skilled HVAC Technicians Are In High Demand.
For many students, going to college isn’t the best option. This often has nothing to do with someone’s intelligence or ability. Many people are simply better with their hands or may not be interested in a job working in an office.
There are a number of high-paying jobs that don’t require a college education. For example, HVAC and HVACR technicians are in high demand. In fact, in Colorado, more than 1,000 new HVAC job openings are expected to be added by 2017.
Here is information about what these techs do, what types of jobs are available and what you can expect to make as a tech.
What Do HVAC Technicians Do?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Most people who are HVAC techs work on heating and air conditioning systems in either private homes or businesses. Their job is to control the temperature and air quality in buildings. Some technicians work in hospitals or commercial buildings on complex systems.
HVAC technicians are important because they make sure that homes and buildings are comfortable. They are also responsible for keeping air quality high. When HVAC systems fail, it can lead to high power bills, rooms that are too hot or too cold and even illness.
HVAC jobs are in demand. Learn what skills are most needed.
What Are the Most In-Demand HVAC Jobs?
Many technicians choose to focus on installing, maintaining or replacing HVAC systems. These are the most common types of HVAC jobs. However, most are familiar with all of these tasks. For HVAC installation technicians, the job usually involves connecting different systems. Installation techs may connect air ducts, heating and cooling units and water and fuel lines.
HVAC Repair and maintenance technicians normally test that parts of a system are working. If things aren’t working, broken items are replaced or repaired. Techs that do maintenance and repair may also adjust systems so that all rooms are heated and cooled evenly. They may also help keep systems from wasting energy.
Along with installation, maintenance and repair, some people choose specialized jobs. These jobs usually require at least a few years working as a tech. People may also need more education or certifications.
Fabrication mechanics make ductwork and need to be able to use metal fabrication machinery. Another specialty job is working as an HVAC system designer. This job requires techs to use computers to create HVAC systems. People can get both of these jobs without going to a traditional four-year school.
HVAC graduate Daniel Kindred was 26 years old and still working at an hourly job in the food industry, he realized one day he had reached his earning potential. He was bored and depressed and “wanted to make more money by entering a growing career in HVAC”.
The Heating & Cooling Industry is Facing a Shortage of Qualified HVAC Technicians.
One of the many reasons to go into the HVAC field is that many businesses really need employees. A lot of jobs require a four-year degree. However, HVAC technicians can be trained in a much shorter time-frame. There is a shortage of HVAC technicians throughout the country, and Colorado is no exception.
Employers need about 29 days to fill jobs that are like HVAC jobs. For companies looking for HVAC techs, this can take more than 36 days.
What is Causing the Increased Demand for Techs?
The need for HVAC workers is expected to rise sharply in the coming years.
There are three major reasons for the shortage of technicians. They are that people are retiring in large numbers, fewer young people are becoming techs and new technology requires more workers.
Workers are Retiring – One major issue is that baby boomers are retiring. This means that large numbers of experienced workers are leaving the workforce. It is estimated that about half of HVAC workers will retire in the next 10 years. Employers will have to replace old technicians and find new technicians as well.
People Assume the Best Jobs Require College – Many high school students aren’t choosing to become HVAC techs. There is a perception that the only way to get a good job is to go to college. In fact, many HVAC technicians make as much or more than people who go to a four-year school. This is especially true after someone has been working as a tech for a few years.
New Technology Requires More Workers – Finally, there have been a number of new developments in HVAC systems. People are more interested in eco-friendly heating and cooling. Ductless systems and heat pumps have also been replacing old heating and cooling systems. New types of units require technicians to install and maintain them.
Employers are you looking for HVAC Tech’s? Did you know about the HVAC-R training programs at IntelliTec Colleges in Grand Junction and Colorado Springs?
HVAC Career Benefits
There are a lot of benefits of being an HVAC technician. They include good pay, benefits and the ability to start a business.
It Pays Well – Many HVAC techs can make anywhere from $42,000 to $67,000 a year. Starting pay may be lower, but people can increase their income with overtime. During the hottest and coldest times of the year, a greater need for techs opens up extra hours.
Good Insurance and Benefits – HVAC technicians tend to have good benefits packages, because they are in high demand. The benefits offered will depend on the employer, but health and dental are often included.
Job Security – HVAC techs don’t normally have to worry about being laid off. Many other workers are being replaced by machines or seeing their jobs outsourced, but HVAC techs have good job security.
Work Environment – You have the opportunity to work indoors and outdoors, you will be on the go working at different locations, and no two days will be the same.
Business Ownership – A person also may find it easier to start his/her own business if he/she is an HVAC technician. About 16 percent of HVAC technicians run their own business. If you are interested in being your own boss, this may be the career for you.
Basic Requirements for Entering the HVAC Technician Field
There are only a few basic qualifications people need to start working or training as an HVAC tech. They include:
A high school diploma or GED
Being 18 years of age
Having a valid driver’s license
Taking and passing a substance abuse test
Passing a basic math test
HVAC technician checking the amperage on a residential heat pump.
Do You Love Using Tools? A Helpful Skill for HVAC Technicians.
To do their jobs, technicians have to be familiar with using a variety of tools. Tools used are:
screwdrivers
wrenches
pipe cutters
Some people will also need to be familiar with more specialized tools. These can include:
voltmeters
combustion analyzers
carbon monoxide testers
acetylene torches
HVAC Technician Training School vs Apprenticeship
While there are a few ways to become an apprentice HVAC technician, most people now attend Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Training programs. This can be easier than being an apprentice. Apprenticeships normally last three to five years. Apprentices also make less money.
Which Vocational Schools Offer Training for HVAC Techs?
These programs can also help you prepare for professional certification tests and various licenses. Getting these can help you get a higher paying job right out of school.
Once you successfully complete your Refrigeration and HVAC training program at IntelliTec college, you will be prepared to sit for professional HVAC industry certification exams.
Look Into Becoming an HVAC Technician: Make a Short-term Investment for a Great Career
You don’t have to spend years going to college to get a good job as an HVAC Technician, because:
There are a lot of job openings for HVAC techs in Colorado and the U.S.
These jobs pay as much or more than some jobs that require a four-year degree.
This career may also allow you to start your own business.
What are the top 3 things employers look for in a candidate applying for HVAC jobs?
Appearance
Attitude
Aptitude
HVAC technicians need to be on-time and dependable. For this reason, some employers may pay more attention to your college attendance and dependability than your grade point average.
