HVAC/R Technology

1-Year Diploma Program

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration technology powers comfort, safety and efficiency in nearly every industry. From climate control in homes and commercial buildings to refrigeration for food storage, healthcare and industrial manufacturing, HVAC/R technicians are essential to modern life.

The HVAC/R Technology program at Southeast Technical College prepares you for a stable, in-demand career with opportunities for specialization, advancement and entrepreneurship.

Train for Real-World HVAC/R Work Environments

As an HVAC/R technician, you may work in residential homes, office buildings, factories, restaurants or hospitals installing, maintaining and repairing systems that regulate temperature, humidity and air quality. Your work directly impacts comfort, safety and system reliability.

Career duties include:

• Testing HVAC/R systems for efficiency and performance
• Diagnosing issues and replacing worn or faulty components
• Performing scheduled maintenance and system inspections
• Communicating clearly with customers and explaining repair options

In just one year at Southeast Tech, you can be ready to launch your HVAC/R career with hands-on experience employers trust.

Specialize in High-Demand HVAC/R Career Paths

HVAC/R offers flexibility and growth as your experience expands. Southeast Tech prepares you to pursue specialized areas such as:

• Residential heating and cooling systems
• Commercial heating and cooling systems
• Air balancing and airflow optimization
• Commercial refrigeration systems
• Controls and building automation

These specialties allow you to align your career with your interests while increasing long-term earning potential.

Learn from Experienced HVAC/R Instructors Using Industry Standards

HVAC/R coursework at Southeast Tech is HVAC Excellence accredited and taught in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, by experienced faculty with industry backgrounds. Instruction focuses on current technologies, safety standards and jobsite expectations.

In the Ed Wood Trade and Industry Center, you gain hands-on experience with:

• Ductwork fabrication and installation
• Piping circuits and refrigerant systems
• Power tools and diagnostic testing equipment

This applied training ensures you graduate confident and workforce-ready.

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Develop Technical Skills Employers Actively Seek

Your coursework helps you build skills that set you apart in the HVAC/R job market:

Apply Advanced HVAC/R Technology

As systems grow more complex, your training gives you a competitive edge in proper system setup, operation and diagnostics.

Strengthen Problem-Solving and Math Skills

You learn to diagnose issues using testing tools, technical manuals and system data. Coursework reinforces applied math skills used to calculate loads, read schematics and interpret charts and schedules.

Communicate Like a Professional Technician

Successful HVAC/R technicians must explain problems clearly and work well with customers and team members. You develop communication and organizational skills expected in professional environments.

Gain Refrigeration Training That Expands Career Options

Unlike many HVAC programs, Southeast Tech includes commercial refrigeration training as part of the curriculum. Refrigeration systems are critical in grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and food service operations.

You learn to service medium- and low-temperature refrigeration equipment including:

• Reach-in coolers and prep tables
• Walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers
• Ice machines and refrigeration accessories

Students also have the opportunity to earn an Employment Ready Certification in Light Commercial Refrigeration through HVAC Excellence, strengthening employability.