How to Become an HVAC Technician in Vermont

In this blog post, I’ll break down the typical steps folks take on the journey to becoming a full-fledged HVAC tech in Vermont.

We’ll look at things like education options, certification requirements, apprenticeships, and licensures.

I’ll also give my two cents on scoring that first job and the types of roles you can take on as your skills grow.

So whether you’re a recent grad just starting your search, or coming from a different career path, I hope sharing this provides some useful information and perspective as you embark on this professionally and personally rewarding line of work.

Let’s jump in!

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Vermont, Step by Step

Educational Pathways

There are a few different pathways to gaining the necessary education and experience to work as an HVAC technician in Vermont.

One option is completing an associate’s degree program at a post-secondary institution.

The other option is to undertake an apprenticeship. 

Apprenticeship Training

For those wanting to learn primarily through hands-on training, HVAC apprenticeships are a valuable alternative to associate’s degrees.

• Vermont Energy Contracting: This company offers apprenticeships for HVAC technicians in Vermont.
• ZipRecruiter: You can browse for apprentice HVAC technician jobs in Vermont on ZipRecruiter. This website lists job opportunities from various companies in Vermont.
• Certified HVAC/R Technician Training: Vermont Technical College offers a Certified HVAC/R Technician Training program designed for HVAC/R technicians with 1–2 years of industry experience. This program can help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become a certified HVAC technician.
• Common minimums are being 18 years old, possessing a high school diploma or GED, having reliable transportation, and passing an entrance exam testing math, mechanical reasoning, and more.
• Your application should include transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation, and any licensure or certifications earned so far. Volunteering experience with Habitat for Humanity or technical student organizations can bolster your file.

If you want to maximize your career in HVAC in Vermont, focus on certification early.

The bump in pay and new opportunities will pay off your investment over the long haul.

Certifications

No matter where you practice in the U.S., the EPA’s Section 608 rules regarding refrigerant handling are a big deal.

Any technician working on HVAC systems needs certification to complete it since those gases can be harmful if released.

Four different EPA certification designations depend on the type of equipment you’ll maintain.

No matter which test you take, expect to see core subjects like environmental rules, refrigerant properties, and recovery and recycling methods.

These are important fundamentals everyone needs to know.

• The Type I exam zooms in on smaller residential units. As any HVAC tech knows, those systems are extremely common. This certification makes sure you can service them safely and recover refrigerant properly.
• Type II is about commercial gear like you’d find in supermarkets and large buildings. Being able to fix commercial systems is a huge skill.
• Type III covers chillers and other low-pressure applications. it looks at specialized recovery techniques and charging sequences to prevent freezing damage. Useful information is universal, whether you work in industrial or food processing facilities.
• Finally, if you opt for the universal certification, you’ll see material from all the other exams. It’s probably the most extensive but will allow you to work on any size or type of refrigerant-using equipment out there. Very versatile for HVAC technicians.

In my opinion, getting EPA certified takes your skills to the next level.

It shows potential employers that you take compliance seriously. It’s well worth the effort for your whole HVAC career.

Licensure Requirements

The state of Vermont does not mandate licensing for HVAC technicians statewide.

However, it’s still advisable to check the permit rules at the locations where you’ll be doing work.

Vermont offers an optional Electrical Specialist (ES) license for those wishing to get certified.

Types of HVAC Licenses in Vermont

There are two ES license classifications available through Vermont’s Department of Public Safety Division of Fire Safety for HVAC work:

• Automatic Gas/Oil Heating (A1): Required for tasks involving propane, natural gas, or oil-fired units like furnaces and oil burners.
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (C3): Necessary for installation and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.

It’s also important to note the U.S. EPA’s Section 608 certification requirement under the Clean Air Act for any technician maintaining equipment containing refrigerants.

Apprentices don’t need individual certification if they are under ongoing supervision by a certified professional.

HVAC Schools in Vermont

Vermont Technical College

• Location: Randolph Center, VT
• Time to complete: BS (four years); AAS (two years)
• Tuition costs: $613 per credit.

Green Mountain Technology and Career Center

• Location: Hyde Park, VT
• Time to complete: One or two years
• Tuition costs: Contact the college for a customized tuition assessment.

ReSOURCE VT

• Location: Hyde Park and Willston
• Time to complete: 6 weeks
• Tuition costs: $500.

HVAC Technician Career Salaries

The average HVAC professional makes around $50k annually in Green Mountain State.

But as Indeed reports, your pay increases as you gain qualifications and experience on the job.

Overall, it looks like there’s decent income potential in HVAC, even just starting in Vermont.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Burlington	$48,378
South Burlington	$48,378
Rutland City	$48,714
Essex Junction	$48,378
Barre	$47,937
Montpelier	$47,937
St. Albans City	$54,366
Winooski	$48,378
Newport City	$48,630
Northfield	$47,937

Regional Salary in Vermont

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, OCC Code 49-9021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job market like for HVAC technicians in Vermont?

Vermont has a growing need for skilled HVAC professionals.

Ideal candidates will have certifications like EPA and pursue continuous education.

Demand remains high across both residential and commercial sectors, especially as older systems need replacing.

What is the long-term career outlook for HVAC technicians in Vermont?

The outlook is very positive, as demand is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.

An aging workforce combined with an increasing number of complex HVAC systems means there will be good opportunities for qualified technicians.

Continuous training in the latest technologies, like geothermal and heat pumps, will help ensure job security.

Are there any Vermont-specific certifications I should earn?

While not required, obtaining the Vermont Electrical Specialist (ES) license can open more doors in some areas, like Burlington.

It shows a clear commitment to safety and code compliance that many commercial customers desire.

Taking specialized courses in heat pump installation is also beneficial, given the growing adoption of those systems statewide.

HVAC Technician Info by State