HVAC Engineering Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for HVAC Engineering Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually, while Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers earn around $59,810. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $96,255 compared to $55,610 in Arkansas. Approximately 461,280 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 180 accredited institutions offer HVAC Engineering Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include South Florida Institute of Technology (SFIT) (891 graduates), Northwestern Technological Institute (473 graduates), and NUC University (NUC) (414 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 8,143 in 2010 to 9,397 in 2023-24. This represents a 15% increase overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, . Related occupations employ approximately 461,280 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.