The HVAC Technician Program prepares you to launch a rewarding career in one of today’s fastest growing skilled trades. Through a comprehensive 160 hour curriculum, learners build hands on expertise in heating, air conditioning, ventilation, electrical systems, installation practices, safety protocols, and system diagnostics.
Blending foundational HVAC principles with advanced entry level competencies and NATE aligned training, the program emphasizes real world skills employers value most. Graduates are workforce ready to support installations, perform maintenance and troubleshooting, and contribute effectively as entry level HVAC technicians in residential and light commercial settings.
Designed to jump start your HVAC career, this program provides the practical training, technical confidence, and industry relevant knowledge needed to begin working immediately, and to grow into a long term, in demand profession.
1. HVAC Fundamentals 1 (6 hours)
2. HVAC Fundamentals 2 (7 hours)
3. Multi‑Family Facilities Maintenance Safety (11 hours)
4. Foundation and Job Ready Preparation (Basics) (55 hours)
5. Foundation and Job Ready Preparation (Intermediate) (35 hours)
6. NATE CHP‑5: HVAC Fundamentals (15 hours)
7. Jump Start: Circuit Labs (4 hours)
8. NATE CHP‑5: Comfort & Airflow (10 hours)
9. NATE CHP‑5: Installation (7 hours)
10. OSHA 10‑Hour General Industry (10 hours)
Following completion of this course, learners will be able to:
Explain the core principles of heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration systems.
Identify and describe HVAC system components and how they work together.
Perform basic installation tasks under the supervision of a licensed technician.
Apply trades math to HVAC scenarios involving pressure, temperature, ratios, and airflow.
Interpret wiring diagrams and troubleshoot simple electrical circuits.
Demonstrate OSHA‑aligned safety practices for HVAC and facilities maintenance environments.
Recognize workplace hazards and apply proper PPE, lockout/tagout, and safe handling procedures.
Follow industry standards for safe installation, maintenance, and equipment operation.
Support Year 1 and Year 2 HVAC technician/installer tasks, including system setup, airflow checks, and basic diagnostics.
Assist with multi‑family facility maintenance tasks and routine service procedures.
Prepare for NATE CHP‑5 exams in HVAC Fundamentals, Comfort & Airflow, and Installation.
Communicate effectively with supervisors, technicians, and customers.
Demonstrate reliability, problem‑solving, and teamwork on job sites.
Enter the workforce prepared for helper‑level roles with a clear pathway to full technician status.
Upon completion of this program, learners will be eligible to sit for the OSHA 10 and NATE: Ready to Work, Core, and AC Specialty exams.
OSHA and EPA exams must be purchased from Interplay Learning by World Education Student Services.
Learners will have access to the Interplay “NATE Training Academy,” which provides the NATE Ready to Work study materials at no cost. The Ready to Work exam must be purchased separately from NATE by World Education Student Services, along with any additional NATE exams. The Ready to Work credential is an entry level certification and is best suited for learners with limited or no prior HVAC experience.
The NATE Ready to Work certification pairs well with the optional NATE CHP 5 pathway, which consists of five exams and leads to full NATE Professional certification. The CHP 5 exams are not included in the total program cost; however, funding agencies typically cover these exam fees. Because the CHP 5 exams are rigorous, they may not be appropriate for individuals who are truly new to the field. Learners with prior experience, however, may find this pathway to be the best option.
Learner Pathway Scenarios
Scenario 1: True Entry Level
• OSHA
• EPA 608
• NATE Ready to Work
• Externship
• Optional progression to NATE CHP 5
Scenario 2: Experience, No Formal Training
• OSHA
• EPA 608
• NATE Ready to Work
• Externship
• NATE CHP 5
Scenario 3: Experience with Some Formal Training
• OSHA
• EPA 608
• NATE Ready to Work
• NATE CHP 5
• Externship
This course is delivered as an independent study program. All instructional materials and resources needed to complete the course successfully are provided within the online platform. A student helpdesk is available to support learners with technical issues throughout their enrollment.