How to Become an HVAC Technician in Wyoming

Picture this: homes staying snug in the winter and wonderfully cool during scorching summers.

Who are the unsung heroes making it possible?

HVAC technicians.

In Wyoming, where the weather’s mood swings are infamous, these skilled professionals play a vital role.

This guide is your backstage pass to the world of HVAC in the “Equality State.” 

What Does an HVAC Technician Do?

An HVAC technician is a skilled problem-solver who specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Their tasks include:

• Installing and maintaining HVAC equipment.
• Diagnosing and repairing system malfunctions.
• Ensuring indoor comfort and air quality.
• Optimizing energy efficiency.
• Performing regular system inspections.
• Collaborating with clients to explain repairs.
• Keeping up-to-date with industry advancements.
• Providing essential services for both residential and commercial spaces.

HVAC technicians, as a whole, play an important role in ensuring that indoor environments are comfortable and functional throughout their work.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Wyoming – Step by Step

Becoming an HVAC technician in Wyoming involves a series of structured steps that lead you toward mastering the craft.

The step-by-step information that follows will help you navigate your journey into the world of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

1) Meet Educational Requirements

Obtain a high school diploma or GED to lay the foundation for your education journey.

2) Enroll in an Accredited HVAC Program

Choose reputable technical schools or colleges that offer HVAC programs accredited by recognized institutions.

Consider options that offer HVAC-R Certificates and Associate degree programs.

3) Complete Training

Gain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships offered by HVAC companies or educational institutions.

This hands-on training hones your skills and makes this work easier to navigate.

4) Obtain EPA 608 Certification

Secure the EPA Section 608 certification, a federal requirement for handling refrigerants.

It has four different types:

• Type I: Servicing small appliances.
• Type II: Servicing or disposing of high-pressure appliances.
• Type III: Servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
• Universal: Combines Type I, II, and III for comprehensive expertise.

5) Apply for a Wyoming State HVAC License

Pursue licensing through the Wyoming Board of Contractors.

The state requires HVAC technicians to obtain a license to work legally.

Steps include:

• Meeting experience requirements.
• Passing an HVAC trade exam.
• Submitting a license application.

6) Explore Additional Certifications

Enhance your expertise and marketability by obtaining industry-recognized certifications such as:

• North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification: Demonstrates your competence in various HVAC specialties.
• HVAC Excellence Certification: Recognizes excellence in professional HVAC skills.
• Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) Certification: Focuses on refrigeration and heating specialties.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled HVAC technician in Wyoming, ready to keep homes and businesses comfortable throughout the seasons.

Wyoming HVAC Certification and License Requirements

In Wyoming, HVAC and refrigeration regulations differ across cities and counties like Cheyenne, Casper, and Sheridan.

Instead of a state-level mandate, specific locations set the rules.

Enter the Wyoming Trades Certification Program by the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, involving the crucial International Code Council (ICC) exam aligned with your specialty.

For HVAC Journeymen, expect around 4 years of apprentice-level experience, while HVAC Master Technicians usually require both apprentice and journeyman experience.

HVAC contractors delve into the scene with prerequisites including a Certificate of Qualification, insurance encompassing liability and worker’s compensation, plus relevant work experience.

Keep in mind that taking and passing the Master HVAC exam is often a key to unlocking opportunities in many of Wyoming’s cities.

HVAC Schools in Wyoming

Laramie County Community College 

About the School

At Laramie County Community College, students can discover pathways to success in a variety of sought-after careers.

This institution holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring quality education and training.

Courses Offered

Laramie County Community College proudly presents a Credit Diploma program in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning/Refrigeration.

This specialized program readies students to embark on careers as HVAC technicians in the construction industry.

Graduates have the flexibility to jumpstart their journey in entry-level positions or pursue advanced studies with an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Other HVAC Opportunities:

The curriculum offers comprehensive coverage of vital subjects regarding HVAC, such as:

• Mechanical Piping
• Fundamentals of Heating & Air Conditioning
• Residential Air Conditioning Systems
• Motor Control Principles
• Electrical Circuits for Motors

Contact Information

• Address: 1400 E College Dr., Cheyenne, WY 82007
• Phone: (800) 522-2993
• Website: https://www.lccc.wy.edu

Western Wyoming Community College

About the School

Western Wyoming Community College offers a range of programs tailored to student success.

With accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, the college provides quality education and training.

Curriculum for HVAC Specialization

For those interested in HVAC, Western Wyoming Community College offers specialized programs in fields that utilize Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning/Refrigeration

Contact Information

• Address: 2500 College Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901
• Phone: (307) 382-1600
• Website: https://www.westernwyoming.edu

Gillette College

About the School

Nestled within the Gillette College landscape, the Gillette College Technical Education Center stands as a hub for technical programs.

Spread over an expansive 91,000-square-foot campus, it hosts an array of educational pursuits encompassing mining, machine tools, diesel, welding, industrial technology, and beyond.

The center houses specialized labs for diesel, welding, industrial electronics, and more, offering students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to gear up for diverse careers.

HVAC Program

With a focused curriculum spanning 24 program credits, this program can be accomplished over four years, progressing with six credits achieved annually.

Seamlessly integrating online and laboratory components, the program aligns with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, Wyoming Department of Labor standards.

It serves as a stepping stone towards the journeyman’s exam, in conjunction with the required 2,000-hour-per-year work commitment.

Contact Information

• Address: 3251 South 4-J Road, Section A, Gillette WY, 82718
• Phone: (307) 675-0781
• Website: https://www.gillettecollege.org/

Casper College

About the College

Casper College boasts 140+ degree and certificate programs, catering to diverse aspirations.

In-state tuition costs $147 per credit hour from Fall 2022, fostering affordability.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the college ensures quality education.

HVAC and Construction Programs

• Construction Technology: AAS degree and Certificate options.
• Electrical Apprenticeship: Master electrical systems and applications.
• Machine Tool Technology: Covers Blueprint Reading, Math Computations, Engineering Graphics, and more.
• Manufacturing and Automation Technology: Integrates modern manufacturing insights.
• Technical Education: AAS program spanning Basic AC/DC Electronics, Physics Concepts, and more.
• Automotive Technology: Offers Certificates and AAS pathways, including Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning.

Contact Information

• Address: 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601
• Phone: (307) 268-2100
• Website: https://www.caspercollege.edu

Northwest College Wyoming

About the College

Northwest College Wyoming offers comprehensive workforce development and lifelong learning across diverse fields.

The main campus sprawls over 132 acres and encompasses 62 buildings in Powell, with additional sites at A.L. Mickelson Field Station, Cody, and Trapper Arena.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the college guarantees quality education.

HVAC Apprenticeship Program

• Duration: Four-year program for Journeyman’s test preparation.
• Learning: Blend of classroom sessions and on-the-job training.
• Wage: Students earn while learning during the apprenticeship.
• Requirements: Around 576 related instruction hours and 6,000 to 8,000 hours of hands-on training.
• Classroom Hours: Completing 144 hours of yearly classroom education.
• Mode: Blend of online and in-person classes.
• Admission: Open to individuals aged 16 and above, with a high school diploma or GED recommended.

Contact Information

• Address: 231 West 6th Street, Powell, Wyoming, 82435
• Phone: (800) 560-469
• Website: https://nwc.edu

WyoTech

About the College

WyoTech offers a specialized HVAC program focusing on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

HVAC Program

• Duration: Six-month program covering key HVAC topics.
• Certifications: Students can earn EPA 608 and 609 certifications.
• Hands-On Learning: Practical training constitutes a significant part of the program.
• Accreditation: WyoTech holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Contact Information

• Address: 1889 Venture Drive, Laramie, Wyoming 82070
• Phone: (307) 742-3776
• Website: https://www.wyotech.edu

Salary for HVAC Technicians in Wyoming

Curious about HVAC technician salaries in Wyoming?

As of July 25, 2023, the average annual pay is around $44,959.

However, the salary range typically spans from $38,847 to $52,968.

Factors such as your location, education, certifications, and years of experience can all influence your earnings in this field.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Cheyenne	$44,940
Casper	$45,820
Laramie	$44,871
Gillette	$43,685
Rock Springs	$45,702
Sheridan	$46,288
Green River	$45,702
Evanston	$45,702
Riverton	$45,095
Cody	$46,288

Regional Salary in Wyoming

* 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.

Conclusion

You now have a clear roadmap to becoming an HVAC Technician in Wyoming.

From education to licensing, each step has been outlined, offering you a straightforward guide to follow.

Get ready to dive into the HVAC world of Wyoming with confidence, armed with the essential information to kickstart your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the educational requirements for HVAC Technicians in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, aspiring HVAC technicians typically need a high school diploma or GED to start their journey.

For gaining specialized knowledge and skills, it is recommended that you enroll in accredited HVAC programs offered by reputable technical schools or colleges.

How long does HVAC training take in Wyoming?

The duration of HVAC training in Wyoming varies based on the chosen program.

While specific timelines can differ, prospective students can reach out to individual educational institutions like Laramie County Community College for accurate program duration details.

Is a Wyoming state HVAC license required for HVAC Technicians?

Unlike some other states, Wyoming doesn’t have state-level HVAC licensing requirements.

However, it’s important to note that certain cities and counties, including Cheyenne, Casper, and Sheridan, may have their own licensing stipulations.

HVAC professionals may be required to demonstrate several years of applicable work experience and successfully pass exams in these areas.

HVAC Technician Info by State