- Certified HVAC Technicians After HVAC Tech School - AEngineer
Upon completing the requirements of HVAC tech school, technicians may opt to take certification exams or wait until they gain ample work experience before getting certified. In most states, certifications are not required. They do, however, give heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers an advantage when it comes to employment opportunities.
Among the most popular certification programs in the United States is the North American Technician Excellence (NATE). Upon graduating from HVAC tech school, most technicians work towards NATE certification as it is a program recognized and supported by the entire industry.
The NATE Core Exam for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning for Installation and Service
The NATE Installation Exam tests candidates' competency as top-level technicians in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry. Depending on the certification being pursued by the candidate, the questions on each exam focus on either installation or service. The NATE also offers certifications for those who want to specialize in the field of Ground Source Heat Pumps and those who want to become certified senior-level technicians.
Candidates who take the closed-book test for installation or service technicians are either given a "Pass" or "Fail" mark. Even if no grades are given, taking classes in any HVAC tech school and gaining experience prior to taking the exam will certainly give candidates an advantage. Candidates must also pass a specialty exam in order to become certified.
The Validity of NATE Certifications for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Workers
Certificates given to those who pass NATE Certification Exams for installation or service are valid for five years. Each certificate holder is given a unique ID number. Such numbers are often checked by potential employers and clients through NATE's ID Number Verification Service online. Doing so allows them to confirm whether or not a technician truly has the right credentials to work.
Before the 5-year period lapses, certified technicians must undergo the re-certification process. This involves completing sixty continuing education hours in the chosen specialty. Such continuing education programs are typically offered by any HVAC tech school. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers who do not wish to complete the required continuing education hours may simply opt to take NATE's specialty exam again.
NATE certification is used as a standard within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry. Those who hold such certifications are often preferred by clients as well as potential employees. Certifications, most especially from the NATE, also opens opportunities for better compensation packages.
References:
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition. "Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics.
North American Technician Excellence. " Knowledge Areas of Technician Expertise." Accessed May 2010.
North American Technician Excellence. " NATE Certification 101." Accessed May 2010.
Related Readings:
Certification in the US After Completing HVAC Courses Online
Paving Career Paths Through HVAC Courses Online and Other Options
Top US Industries for HVAC Tech School Graduates to Enter
