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Program Information
The HVAC/R Maintenance Certificate prepares students for entry-level careers in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry. Through classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experiences, students develop the foundational knowledge and technical skills needed to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and service HVAC/R systems.
Students receive training in heating systems, electrical fundamentals, safety practices, and repair procedures while gaining practical experience using industry-standard tools and equipment. Graduates are prepared for employment as HVAC/R apprentices, maintenance technicians, or service assistants and are positioned to continue gaining experience toward becoming licensed HVAC/R technicians.
Please note that completion of this certificate alone does not qualify graduates for the State of Iowa specialty license requirements. Students who complete this certificate will earn credit toward completion of the HVAC/R Technology Diploma. Graduates of this program are awarded a certificate.
Program Highlights
Fast-Track Training: Complete the certificate in as little as one semester and quickly enter the workforce.
Hands-On Laboratory Experience: Gain practical experience troubleshooting and servicing HVAC/R systems using industry-standard equipment.
HVAC/R Fundamentals Instruction: Develop foundational knowledge in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and safety practices.
Electrical Systems Training: Learn electrical principles and troubleshooting techniques essential to servicing modern HVAC/R equipment.
Industry-Standard Equipment: Train using the tools, equipment, and technologies commonly found in the HVAC/R industry.
Career-Ready Preparation: Build the technical and professional skills needed for entry-level employment and apprenticeship opportunities.
High-Demand Industry: Prepare for employment in an industry experiencing continued workforce demand and growth.
Experienced Industry Faculty: Learn from instructors with real-world HVAC/R industry experience.
Educational Pathway Opportunities: Use this certificate as a stepping stone toward advanced HVAC/R education and career advancement.
Job Outlook
1,742 Jobs (2025)
+3.9% Change from 2024-2025
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
What will you do
Graduates may:
- Assist with the installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC/R systems.
- Troubleshoot basic heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration system issues.
- Perform preventative maintenance inspections and service procedures.
- Inspect and test electrical components and controls associated with HVAC/R equipment.
- Utilize service manuals, testing equipment, and diagnostic tools.
- Assist experienced technicians with system repairs and equipment installations.
- Maintain and service residential and commercial HVAC/R equipment.
- Follow industry safety standards and best practices.
- Communicate maintenance recommendations and service needs to customers and supervisors.
- Prepare equipment and work areas for safe and efficient operation.
- Build foundational skills necessary for advancement into licensed HVAC/R technician roles.
Wages
Entry: $23.66
Average: $29.83
Experienced: $34.58
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
First Semester | ||||
| HCR 145 - Intro to Heating Systems | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 103 - Introduction to HVAC/R and Safety | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 201 - Applied Practices I: Repair and Service | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| HCR 190 - Electrical for HVAC | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MAT 743 - Technical Math | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 16.0 Credits | ||||
Total Semester Hours Required: 16.0 | ||||
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Program Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of the program students will:
- Execute mathematical processes using formulas necessary for design, evaluation, and installation of HVAC/R systems.
- Explain the different uses of HVAC/R materials, equipment, tools, and safety required for installation and diagnostic tasks.
- Explain the processes for evaluating and installing HVAC/R electrical systems and controls.