If you're aiming to begin a career in HVAC in Jacksonville, Texas, in 2025, the journey starts with pursuing certification and hands-on training to meet state requirements. You'll need at least 24 months of supervised experience, with options to accelerate through military service or specialized programs, and expect training programs lasting 7 to 12 months. Salaries for entry-level HVAC technicians here average $53,955 annually, aligning with national figures, while job growth in Texas is projected at 21% by 2030, driven by industry trends like smart systems and energy efficiency—learn more about these trends here 12.
Before embarking on this career path, it's crucial to grasp what an HVAC technician does. These professionals install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings—check out detailed demand insights on this page. They handle everything from routine inspections to advanced troubleshooting, ensuring systems operate efficiently and comply with safety standards.
In Texas, you don't need a state license to work as an HVAC technician, but obtaining certification is highly recommended for better job opportunities and credibility. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees certifications, requiring 24 months of supervised experience for air conditioning and refrigeration contractors 3. While Jacksonville follows state rules, certification can lead to roles like applying for an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License, enhancing your career prospects—for more on industry challenges, visit this resource.
To build the necessary skills, an apprenticeship or training program is essential. In Texas, programs typically last 7 to 12 months, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Here's a breakdown of key programs available near Jacksonville:
| Program | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsa Welding School – Houston Campus | 7 months | Hands-on training in refrigeration technologies, preparing for entry-level roles; next start in June 2025 3. |
| Texas State Technical College | Varies | Access to advanced labs with high-efficiency systems for practical experience 4. See more details here. |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | 12 months full-time | Includes 1,350 hours of instruction, leading to industry certifications; enrollment for August 2025 starts in April 5. |
To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings in Texas, or explore local trade schools offering NATE and EPA certifications 6. This step not only provides real-world experience but also connects you with potential employers—explore job listings on Indeed.
To start, ensure you meet the foundational criteria: be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and possess basic skills in math and science. Texas emphasizes practical experience, so physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments are essential 3. For additional resources on HVAC trends, check this site.
While not mandatory, enrolling in a recognized program like those at Tulsa Welding School or Texas State Technical College can accelerate your path. These programs cover HVAC fundamentals, safety practices, and energy-efficient technologies, often leading to certifications that boost employability 7.
Complete at least 24 months of on-the-job training under a licensed contractor. If you have military experience, it can count towards this requirement—submit documentation via the TDLR for credit 3.
Once experienced, apply for certification through TDLR by submitting an application, experience verification, and a $20 fee 6. This step qualifies you for higher-paying roles and positions you for career advancement in the growing HVAC field—stay updated on job opportunities via Gild's job feed.
After certification, aim for advanced roles like senior technician or supervisor, where salaries can reach up to $77,200 annually nationally 6. In Jacksonville, opportunities in smart HVAC systems and energy efficiency are expanding, driven by trends like electrification and IoT integration 7.
Starting as an HVAC technician in Jacksonville, TX, in 2025 offers steady growth with Texas projected to add 3,720 jobs by 2030, amid a national shortage of 225,000 positions 89. To get started, check out Gild for apprenticeship listings and prepare for the demand in energy-efficient technologies. As you gain experience, you'll find rewarding opportunities in this essential industry—take the first step today and build a future in HVAC—don't forget to explore more HVAC resources.
https://www.tws.edu/blog/hvac-r/what-is-the-demand-for-hvac-technicians/ ↩
https://www.tws.edu/blog/hvac-r/how-much-does-hvac-schooling-cost-in-texas-and-florida/ ↩
https://www.tws.edu/blog/hvac-r/hvac-certification-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-hvac-career-requirements/ ↩
https://www.tws.edu/blog/hvac-r/how-to-become-an-hvac-tech-in-texas/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
Apply for an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License ↩ ↩2
https://homegnome.com/blog/studies/best-metro-areas-hvac-technicians/ ↩
https://www.workyard.com/construction-management/hvac-industry-trends ↩
