HVACR Career Rates High in Yahoo! Career List

The HVACR industry has always known the technician's job is a good and rewarding one, but now it’s even front-page news on Yahoo!

The Internet giant reports more HVACR technicians are needed to keep pace with an ever-growing demand.

In its recent Top 10 list of “stealth” careers, Yahoo! ranked the HVACR technician occupation No. 5, beating out careers such as consultants, welders and personal chefs.
“I’m not at all surprised by this ranking,” says Rex Boynton, president of North American Technician Excellence (NATE), an HVACR technician certification organization based in Arlington, VA.

“It’s simply more recognition of what we’ve known for some time—that well-trained and NATE-certified HVACR technicians are in high demand and can command a very respectable income,” Boynton says.

HVACR jobs are expected to increase 21 to 35%) through 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. With each new home, mall, factory, office building and school, there is an increased need for HVACR installers and service technicians. With this consideration, the government pegs job prospects for HVACR technicans as “excellent,” particularly for those who have completed training from an accredited technical school or a formal apprenticeship. Beginning HVACR technicians can expect to earn over $35,000 a year, while a seasoned technician, contractor or engineer can earn up to $100,000 annually.

Robert Wilkos, Business Leader with Peaden Air Conditioning, Panama City, FL, says his company is an absolute believer in NATE testing and certification. “We expect all of our apprentices to take the NATE test to instill pride in the quality of their own work and to enhance the entire company.”

Boynton says its gratifying for NATE to see how it contributes to helping technicians move forward professionally.

“We’re pleased to play a role in providing the type of testing and certification that can take technicians to the next level in their careers,” Boynton says.