HVAC Schools in Longmont CO

Introduction

Struggling to find the best HVAC schools in Longmont, CO? This article pinpoints top-rated programs that provide quality training and industry-recognized certifications.

Here’s a look at your best options and what makes them stand out.

Front Range Community College – HVAC/R Program

Front Range Community College (FRCC) offers an HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration) program in Longmont, Colorado. It is nationally accredited by PAHRA, ensuring recognized industry standards.

FRCC’s HVAC/R program allows you to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and four distinct certificates:

• Residential Air Conditioning and Heating
• Light Commercial Air Conditioning and Heating
• Commercial Refrigeration
• HVAC/R Fundamentals

The AAS degree requires 60 credits over four semesters. Certificate programs vary in credit requirements and duration.

A significant feature of FRCC is the Zero-Cost option. The Career Advance Colorado grant program fully covers tuition, fees, and materials. This makes it more accessible for you if you are considering a career in HVAC.

The curriculum trains you in residential and light commercial HVAC systems, hot-water heating systems, and commercial refrigeration. Skills you will learn include:

• Brazing/soldering
• Copper tubing fabrication
• EPA certification
• Basic electrical skills
• Commercial building controls

FRCC also offers a transfer agreement with Ferris State University in Michigan, allowing you to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in HVAC/R Engineering Technology and Energy Management for extended career advancement.

If you are considering this program, FRCC ensures thorough preparation for immediate entry into the workforce, making it an excellent option for future technicians.

HVAC Career Now – HVAC Technician Training Program

HVAC Career Now in Longmont, CO, offers a structured HVAC technician training program, including NATE or EPA certification classes. They work with established HVAC trade schools and offer financial aid assistance for qualifying students.

Key features of this program include:

• Hands-on training from experienced instructors
• Flexible scheduling options to fit various needs
• Convenient location for local residents

Duration and cost details vary. Detailed cost information for tuition and fees can be obtained directly from HVAC Career Now. The program’s strong focus on practical skills ensures you are job-ready upon graduation.

Graduates are well-equipped for careers in HVAC, having trained extensively in HVAC systems installation, troubleshooting, and repair. This makes HVAC Career Now a noteworthy option for those seeking skills-based education.

Emily Griffith Technical College – HVAC Program

Emily Griffith Technical College provides an immersive HVAC program, combining online coursework with in-person instruction and technical tours. This hybrid learning approach is beneficial for gaining both practical and theoretical knowledge about heating and refrigeration systems.

The program starts with a Safety Training for the Trades course, emphasizing the importance of safety. Attendance is critical, with strict policies in place: a maximum allowable absence rate of 30%, and repeated tardiness or absences can result in dismissal.

Key aspects of Emily Griffith’s HVAC Program:

• Mandatory Safety Training
• Strict attendance policies
• Hands-on experiences like technician ride-alongs and technical tours

The HVAC program costs approximately $8,070 and is eligible for Career Advance Colorado and traditional financial aid. Graduates are ready for various roles, such as HVAC installers, service technicians, and design engineers, thanks to rigorous training covering a wide range of HVAC systems.

Front Range Community College – HVAC/R Fundamentals Certificate Program

Front Range Community College‘s HVAC/R Fundamentals Certificate Program offers foundational HVAC/R skills. This includes brazing/soldering, copper tubing fabrication, EPA certification, and basic electrical skills. It’s ideal if you’re new to the field or seeking essential skills.

Key features of the Fundamentals Certificate Program:

• Coursework: Introduction to Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Basic Refrigeration, Basic Electricity, and Electrical Components for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, totaling 15 credit hours.
• Certification: The certificate can lead to further industry certifications by passing the Industry Competency Exam (ICE).
• Advanced Opportunities: You can pursue additional certifications in Residential Air Conditioning and Heating, Light Commercial Air Conditioning and Heating, and Commercial Refrigeration with just two extra semesters.
• Degree Pathway: An Associate of Applied Science Degree in HVAC/R can be completed in three more semesters for advanced career opportunities.

Admission to the program may require consultation if you have not met certain foundational knowledge standards. This ensures you are well-prepared for the program and your future career.

How to Choose the Right HVAC School in Longmont CO

Choosing the right HVAC school is crucial for your career. Consider these factors to make an informed choice:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as PAHRA. Accreditation adds credibility and may improve employment prospects.
2. Curriculum: The curriculum should cover both theoretical and practical aspects of HVAC systems. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the field.
3. Hands-on Training: Look for programs that offer extensive lab work, technical tours, or real-world experience. Practical skills are vital in the HVAC industry.
4. Job Placement Assistance: Schools that provide job placement assistance can help you transition from education to employment smoothly.
5. Financial Aid: Explore the availability of grants, scholarships, and other financial aids. Accredited schools often have better financial aid options.
6. Expert Faculty: Instructors with real-world experience provide invaluable insights. Check the qualifications and experience of the faculty.
7. Class Size: Smaller classes generally offer more personalized instruction. Consider the student-to-teacher ratio.
8. Location and Schedule Flexibility: Ensure the program fits your lifestyle. Hybrid formats, like those at Emily Griffith Technical College, offer flexibility for working adults.
9. Career Goals Alignment: Whether you aim for a technical certification, associate degree, or advanced study, the program should align with your professional ambitions.

Conclusion: Start Your HVAC Career in Longmont Today

The HVAC programs in Longmont, CO, provide diverse and quality training options. Whether you choose Front Range Community College or Emily Griffith Technical College, you will gain valuable skills. Select the program that aligns best with your needs and take the next step in your HVAC career journey.