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Several HVAC schools in San Jose, CA offer courses and programs in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology.
These institutions provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in the field.
From basic electrical theory to commercial refrigeration and ice machines, students can choose from various courses and programs that suit their needs and interests.
1 San Jose City College
About the School
San José City College’s HVAC program provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in the air conditioning and refrigeration industry.
Students gain practical and theoretical proficiency in working with electrical equipment, refrigeration, air conditioning machinery, and related mathematics.
The program offers an Associate in Science degree and two certificates of achievement in Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Technology.
Courses Offered
The program’s curriculum includes a range of courses designed to provide students with practical knowledge and hands-on training, including:
- Directed Study in Air Conditioning
- Air Conditioning Principles
- Refrigeration Principles
- Intermediate Air Conditioning
- Refrigeration Service
- EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Recovery Certification Program
- Work Experience
- Hydronics and Air Distribution
- Air Conditioning Control Systems
- Sheet Metal Principles
Students who wish to enroll in the HVAC program must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, meet the course prerequisites, and complete placement tests.
For students looking for assistance with the cost of tuition and other costs, financial aid is available, and applying is encouraged.
Address: Moorpark Ave., San Jose, CA 95128
2 Institute for Business & Technology (IBT)
About the School
Institute for Business & Technology (IBT) offers an extensive HVAC/R program that goes beyond the basics of HVAC technology.
The program provides hands-on practical training to develop skilled technicians knowledgeable in various trades.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared to test for industry-recognized certifications, including ESCO EPA certification, HVAC Excellence, 410A, and OSHA.
Courses Offered
The HVAC/R program covers a wide range of subjects, including:
- Electrical theory and controls
- Basic Plumbing
- Welding and soldering using oxy-acetylene torches
Students also learn how to install, service, and repair residential and commercial air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration systems.
They acquire knowledge and skills to troubleshoot and maintain EPA regulations for residential and commercial equipment.
IBT provides financial aid to eligible students.
The financial aid administrators can explain the process and guide students through available options.
They assist with identifying and applying for grants, scholarships, and loans to fund education.
Students can schedule one-on-one sessions to learn more.
Address: 2400 Walsh Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95051
3 Center for Employment Training - San Jose Campus
About the School
The Center for Employment Training offers HVAC and Green Technology career training programs.
The HVAC and Green Technology job training program provides hands-on training for students to gain the necessary skills for installing or servicing air conditioning, ventilation, or heating units.
Students will learn about HVAC safety, tools, refrigeration, heating equipment, pipe fitting, brazing and soldering, duct work, green HVAC technology, and more.
Upon graduation, the Center will help students find jobs in the HVAC field using green technology.
Courses Offered
The HVAC and Green Technology programs cover a range of topics, including:
- HVAC Safety
- HVAC Tools
- Applied Mathematics in an HVAC Context
- Principles of Electricity
- Refrigeration and Recovery
- Heating Equipment
- Pipe Fitting, Brazing, and Soldering
- Duct Work
- Green HVAC Technology
- Basic Computers
- Customer Service
- Job preparation, including interview and resume skills
The Center offers HVAC and Green Technology job training in Coachella, Colton, and San Jose, California.
With 30 hours of weekly participation, the program can be finished in 8-9 months.
Grants, scholarships, and federal student loans are all options for students who qualify for financial assistance.
The program’s total cost, including textbooks, uniforms, and all necessary materials for the projects, is $15,500.
Students must complete the application process, submit official transcripts, and take any required tests to apply for the HVAC and Green Technology job training program.
CET provides options for students who did not complete high school or earn a GED and provides financial aid to those who qualify.
Class sizes range from about 20 to 25 students.
Address: 701 Vine St., San Jose, CA 95110
4 Silicon Valley Career Technical Education (SVCTE)
About the School
SVCTE offers courses in the maintenance, repair, and adjustment of residential and commercial HVAC units.
Students work with real equipment in the classroom and throughout the campus.
The program focuses on academic, technical skills, and employability practices, preparing students for high-paying jobs and financial security.
Courses Offered
The following skills are covered in the program:
- Use specialized equipment for the job
- Recognize the theory and practical applications of cooling, air, electrical principles and controls, and how to diagnose equipment problems
- Be familiar with “Green Building Technology”
- Identifying solutions to problems
- Utilize computers to improve the HVAC knowledge required of entry-level technicians.
- Gain respect for standard business procedures and the employer-employee relationship
- Repair the apparatus for heating, cooling, and refrigeration
- Communicate with customers
- Recycle and repurpose the refrigerant
After finishing the program, students can earn several certifications, including a class completion certificate, Level One HVAC Technician Green Certification, Morrell Foundation Tool Kit Scholarship, and college credit from San Jose City College with a grade of B or above.
Job opportunities upon completion include HVAC installer (commercial, residential), HVAC technician (Level 1), commercial maintenance technician, and refrigeration maintenance technician.
The cost per semester per program is $3,917.
Address: 760 Hillsdale Ave., San Jose, CA 95136
5 Gavilan College
About the School
Gavilan College is a public community college that serves the communities of southern Santa Clara County.
The college offers courses in the Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology fields through its HVAC AS degree and HVAC CA certificate programs.
The programs cover both theory and practical applications to prepare students for various careers in the field.
Courses Offered
There are several courses offered by the college, including:
- HVAC 201 Basic Electrical Theory
- HVAC 202 Basic Refrigeration
- HVAC 203 Heating Systems
- HVAC 204 Air-Conditioning and Heat Pumps
- HVAC 205 Commercial Refrigeration and Ice Machines
- HVAC 206 HVAC Controls
The college also offers general education requirements that can be used to satisfy both general education and major requirements.
Prospective students can apply to Gavilan College by completing an online application form.
It is recommended that students apply as early as possible to ensure a spot in their desired program.
Gavilan College offers eligible students financial aid through grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans.
Address: 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd, Gilroy, CA 95020
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