How to Become an HVAC Technician in Oklahoma

A career in HVAC in Oklahoma could be just a few classes and a couple years of paid on-the-job training away. Technicians who can install, maintain, repair and inspect heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems in homes and businesses are in high demand. In this career you’ll enjoy good job stability and your choice of positions, as well as a good salary. [Leer en español]

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Requirements for Becoming an HVAC Technician in Oklahoma

Oklahoma licenses HVAC apprentices, journeymen and contractors. Apprentice licensing requires that you have a position secured with a licensed contractor. To become a journeyman, you must work for at least three years as an apprentice or in a similar work experience position. Classroom instruction can count for one or two of those years. Contractors in the state must meet the same educational and training requirements as journeymen, plus one additional year of work experience.

HVAC technician program topics may include:

  • Refrigeration systems
  • Heating systems such as heat pumps and heat transfer
  • Load calculations
  • Ventilation
  • Information technology
  • Indoor air quality

Some programs may offer certification from the Environmental Protection Agency in refrigerant handling, which is required by federal law. The type of license you need to work as an HVAC technician in Oklahoma depends on the tasks you’ll be performing.

Skills needed to become an HVAC/R technician include:

  • Ability to use power tools
  • The ability to read and interpret technical manuals and blueprints
  • Troubleshooting skills
  • Math skills to calculate load requirements

HVAC Schools in Oklahoma

To begin a career in HVAC in Oklahoma you have two options: complete an academic degree or diploma program or enroll in and complete an apprenticeship program. Academic programs are accredited by HVAC Excellence or the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). In addition to completing one of these programs, you will need to also have some work experience to qualify for licensing as a journeyman.

For those who wish to attend an HVAC school, consider the following educational programs:

  • Red River Technology Center, Duncan. Like many of the academic programs in Oklahoma, Red River trains both high school and adult students. This adult program in HVAC and refrigeration is accredited by HVAC Excellence and costs just $811.
  • Tulsa Technology Center, Tulsa. Tulsa Tech has a PAHRA-accredited program that takes nine months to complete for adult students. Graduates can apply credits to college programs and are prepared for several types of HVAC certification.
  • Indian Capital Technology Center, Talequah. Indian Capital trains students to work in residential and commercial settings and with refrigerants. Graduates are eligible to apply and test for several types of certification.

Other Oklahoma HVAC schools include:

  • Moore Norman Technology Center
  • Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

Rather than completing an academic program, you may choose to enroll in an apprenticeship program that provides both coursework and hands-on training. You can check out Oklahoma Works to find available registered apprenticeships or apply directly to local unions and professional construction organizations that offer training programs.

Certification and Licensing for Becoming an HVAC Technician in Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s Construction Industries Board is responsible for licensing HVAC workers in the state. HVAC apprentices, journeymen and contractors are licensed under the general mechanical heading. Apprentices must register and have an application signed by a supervising contractor. Journeymen must have three years of work experience, or one or two years of experience plus classroom hours, as well as a passing score on an exam. Contractors need one additional year of experience and must pass another test.

If you will be working with refrigerants, and many HVAC workers do, you will also need Environmental Protection Agency Section 608 technician certification. Most apprenticeships and academic programs will prepare you to pass the examination for this certification that is mandated by the federal Clean Air Act.

Job Opportunities and Salary Expectations

In Oklahoma, HVAC technicians earn an average of $47,200 per year and $22.69 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You will have the opportunity to earn more as you gain additional experience and certifications and if you become a contractor.

You can expect to have good job stability in this career, as growth in the industry is 10 percent across the country.

Working as an HVAC Technician in Oklahoma

Most HVAC technicians are hired by HVAC or other mechanical contractors. Some of these companies are small, while others are large; some focus on residential buildings, and others do commercial work. Look for the most opportunities in Oklahoma’s biggest cities and surrounding suburbs, including Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman and Broken Arrow.

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Get information on HVACR Certified Technician programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

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FAQs

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Oklahoma

  • 1. Meet Oklahoma’s minimum age and education standards
  • 2. Earn an HVAC-related degree or go through an HVAC apprenticeship
  • 3. Register with the state as an apprentice, or
  • 4. Gain three years’ equivalent experience and apply for a journeyman’s license

How much do heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers earn in the state of Oklahoma?

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in the state of Oklahoma made an average of $45,490 per year in 2019. Entry-level heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers earned around $27,240 and some experienced professionals earned salaries as high as $68,910.

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