If you’re considering a career as a refrigeration technician, Miller-Motte College’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Basic Refrigeration (HVAC/BR) program may be a good fit. Designed to provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience, this diploma program prepares students for entry-level positions in residential and commercial HVAC and refrigeration service.
Our HVAC/BR program is delivered in person and emphasizes real-world skills that align with industry expectations. Students are guided by industry-experienced instructors and trained in labs designed to simulate professional settings.
What You’ll Learn in the HVAC/BR Program
The curriculum begins with basic shop safety, HVAC system principles, and refrigerant handling, then expands into more complex topics like electrical systems, system diagnostics, and preventative maintenance. Students also explore the refrigeration cycle and how various system components, such as thermostats and defrost controls, function in commercial and residential equipment.
Course topics include:
- Proper use of specialty HVAC tools
- Troubleshooting and repairing refrigeration and air conditioning systems
- Fundamentals of electrical circuitry
- Preventative maintenance procedures
- Customer service and communication
Throughout the program, students are also introduced to core concepts needed to sit for the EPA Section 608 certification, a requirement for handling refrigerants in HVAC and refrigeration roles.
The Role of NCCER in MMC’s HVAC/BR Training
Miller-Motte College’s HVAC/BR program is recognized by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). This recognition means students are exposed to NCCER’s core and key competencies and may be eligible to earn NCCER-issued credentials upon successful completion of program requirements.
NCCER’s training standards aim to reduce skill gaps between classroom education and workplace readiness. With industry-developed guidelines, the NCCER framework helps students understand the technical procedures, safety practices, and blueprint reading required in HVAC and refrigeration service roles.
What Refrigeration Technicians Do
Refrigeration technicians specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of systems like walk-in coolers, freezers, vending machines, and commercial refrigerators. These professionals test units after installation, monitor performance, and adjust controls to ensure optimal operation. They also follow work orders, maintain stock levels, and document service activity.
While HVAC technicians typically focus on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigeration technicians receive more specialized training in low-temperature applications and refrigeration cycle management. Technicians may work in industrial, commercial, or residential settings, depending on their training, certifications, and employer needs.
Hands-On Training Makes a Difference
A key feature of MMC’s HVAC/BR program is hands-on training. Students gain experience working on HVAC and refrigeration systems under the guidance of instructors with industry backgrounds. In lab environments, students practice installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining systems — from compressors and condensers to thermostats and wiring diagrams.
This practical training reinforces classroom concepts, allowing students to build confidence and develop a working knowledge of the equipment they’ll encounter on the job.
National Job Outlook for HVAC and Refrigeration Technicians
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 42,500 openings for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are projected each year from 2023 to 2033. These openings stem from the need to replace retiring workers and meet continued demand for climate control systems in both residential and commercial buildings.
While job availability and salary can vary by region, the national outlook reflects a consistent need for trained professionals in this skilled trade.
Financial Aid and Support
MMC offers various financial aid options for those who qualify, including federal and state aid programs, scholarships, and payment plans. By reducing financial barriers, MMC helps students focus on their education and career goals.
Students are also prepared to sit for the EPA Section 608 certification exam as part of the program. This credential is essential for technicians who handle refrigerants in compliance with environmental regulations.
Why Choose MMC for Refrigeration Technician Training?
The HVAC/BR program at MMC is designed for students seeking a fast, practical pathway to enter the skilled trades. The program:
- Can be completed in as little as 10 months
- Starts every five weeks with rolling enrollment
- Provides structured, in-person learning with expert instructors
- Includes hands-on training aligned with industry expectations
- Offers preparation for industry-recognized certifications (EPA 608, NCCER)
Each course builds on the last, gradually increasing students’ confidence and capability in HVAC and refrigeration service. From electrical basics to customer service skills, students gain exposure to a variety of competencies to support entry-level employment.
Building Your Future in HVAC and Refrigeration
Choosing a skilled trade like HVAC and refrigeration can offer more than just a paycheck — it can offer long-term career stability, daily problem-solving challenges, and the satisfaction of hands-on work. The work is essential across industries, from food services to healthcare to residential housing. That means opportunities exist in many geographic regions and sectors.
MMC’s HVAC/BR program supports more than just technical education. It introduces students to professional standards, safety protocols, and customer interaction scenarios that mirror real-world conditions. This well-rounded approach helps students prepare not just for the job, but for the career path that they can follow.
Students leave the program with not only classroom instruction and lab experience, but with support from a team that understands the needs of career-focused learners. From admissions through graduation, MMC staff are here to help students navigate the educational journey and prepare to pursue roles in the field.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers, this program can provide a solid foundation and a path toward becoming a certified technician.
Refrigeration technicians play a vital role in modern comfort and food safety systems. With training from Miller-Motte College, students can gain the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience to pursue opportunities in HVAC and refrigeration service.
To learn more about enrollment or upcoming start dates, fill out our interest form today.
Disclaimers: Information within this blog is for general information purposes only. Miller-Motte College does not assume or guarantee certification/licensures, specific job/career positions, income earning potential, or salary expectations based on the programs offered at Miller-Motte College. Career and program information statements in this blog do not guarantee that programs or other information mentioned are offered at Miller-Motte College.
Information within this blog is for general information purposes only. Miller-Motte does not assume or guarantee certification/licensures, specific job/career positions, income earning potential or salary expectations based on the programs offered at Miller-Motte. Career and program information statements in this blog do not guarantee that programs or other information mentioned are offered at Miller-Motte.
