Northeast’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Associate of Applied Science degree program prepares students for skilled careers installing, maintaining, and servicing heating, cooling, and electrical systems. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students explore the physical, mechanical, and chemical principles behind refrigeration and air conditioning, with a focus on electrical controls and motors. Students also build practical skills in sheet metal fabrication, ventilation system installation, equipment diagnostics, and the setup of residential and commercial HVAC systems. Students graduate with the knowledge and skills to launch careers in a high-demand field.
Why Students Choose This Program
At Northeast, HVAC students benefit from industry-recognized, hands-on training that sets them apart. Northeast is one of the only schools in the area that offers certification exams through the Employment Ready Exams through ESCO Institute. Students also learn through 1,000 hours of lab experience and the opportunity to learn ecofriendly, "go green" procedures, preparing them to meet today’s environmental and industry standards.
Small class sizes and expert instructors provide personalized attention. Instructors engage directly with each student—offering tailored guidance, detailed feedback, and support. Students benefit from faculty with real-world experience who guide them through technical training.
HVAC technicians are essential in nearly every residential, commercial, and industrial setting. As older systems are replaced and new construction expands, the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
The HVAC program is centered around hands-on learning in a real-world setting. Students spend 1,000 hours working in modern labs using industry-standard equipment. Students gain knowledge and practical experience in electricity, refrigeration, sheet metal, air conditioning, heat pumps and more. In addition, the program requires a summer internship, where students advance their knowledge by working with an employer. Through hands-on projects students gain experience, problem-solving skills, and the confidence to step directly into the workforce.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Refrigeration Principles
- Heat Pump Technology
- Commercial Airconditioning and Refrigeration
Program Details
2 years (78 credits)
Courses are offered classroom based and hybrid.
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program.
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Students will also receive certifications in Refrigerant 608, Air Conditioning Employment Ready, Electrical Employment Ready and Gas Heating Employment Ready.
Pat Sukup, Energy Control
Nathan Johnson, Major Refrigeration
Warren Hoferer, WinAir Supply
Gary Love, Custom Heating and Air
Terry King, Trane
Marty Clausen, Clausen Air
James Loutzenhiser, NPPD
Fred Most, Trane Nebraska
