Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician

The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC and R) industry designs, builds, maintains and repairs essential indoor comfort and cooling systems including heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Refrigeration equipment for supermarkets used for food processing and cold storage facilities and sports facilities such as hockey and curling rinks are also a vital part of the industry. As a result of the expanding markets for refrigeration and air conditioning and changing technology, a dramatic need exists for qualified personnel both at home and abroad. A refrigeration mechanic fabricates, installs, alters, repairs/services any system used for cooling and/or heating (i.e. heat pumps) in closed systems that contain a refrigerant or a brine and thermoelectric cooling. This includes piping, controls and electrical work. These workers also connect rooftop units to gas and test and balance systems.

The program

The HVAC and R Technician program provides a foundation in basic heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration system design, installation and service with an on-the-job experience component to support BCIT instruction. The course is two years in duration combining classroom and shop instruction with cooperative education experience in industry. The first year is devoted to direct refrigeration systems. The second year includes a broad range of topics focused on HVAC systems design, operation and controls. Emphasis will be placed on diagnosis, service requirements and procedures.