HEATING, VENTILATING,
AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING

Instructor, Jack Chilcote                                                                                                         

Course Description

This multi-trade course is designed to provide training and give students entry-level skills in the areas of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and plumbing.  The program provides training in the areas of basic electrical theory, electrical safety, reading electrical schematics, and basic electrical circuit construction.

Other areas of training include air movement, types of duct systems, duct system installation and air system balancing.  Students will be trained on the basic function of forced air and hydronic heating systems, and basic operation of residential and commercial air conditioning systems.

Training in the area of residential plumbing includes design of drain waste and vent systems and plumbing safety.  Students will be instructe don how to safety operate and maintain the basic power tools used in the plumbing trade.  Students will be trained to properly install portable water systems and drain, waste and vent (DWV) systems.  Students are involved with the actual construction of these systems in a house construction project.

On November 16, 2006, the GACTC was granted HVAC Excellence Accreditation.  This is a firm indication that the program meets prevailing industry quality standards.

Mission and Goals: 

1.  Prepare students for entry-level skills to either enter the workforce or postsecondary education.
2.  Instill a work ethic much needed in today's workforce.
3.  Provide career-specific skill standards to meet the needs of today's workforce.

Job Outlook
The employment outlook is good. Sixty percent of the plumbing and heating systems in the American homes are 30 years old or older and very inefficient.  Many former students have gained employment with plumbing and heating contractors, local hospitals, labor unions, and the rail industry.

Further Education Opportunities
The training also prepares students for further education opportunities at technical schools, junior colleges, and most Commonwealth campuses.  The GACTC has established articulation agreements with many postsecondary institutions.

This program also available to adults.
See Intergenerational Programs