HVAC Technology at San Jacinto Community College

Pasadena, TX · Public · Certificate · Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR)

with 23,071 students enrolled in Pasadena, TX.

Program Analysis

At $30,189 per year, HVAC Technology graduates from San Jacinto Community College earn below the $36,779 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.

With a 160.4x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 1% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in HVAC Technology involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.

San Jacinto Community College ranks #42 among 260 HVAC Technology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $30,189 to $31,732 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.

The 15 apprenticeship pathways connected to HVAC Technology reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

61 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
59
Low End
61
Score
61
High End
Earnings $30,189/yr (-18% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (89% shielded)
Job Market Large (40,100 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$320K
1.2% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
160.4x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
1 of 1
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$1,992
Out-of-state: $5,352
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$31,732
5% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for HVAC Technology graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers $59,810 +8.1% 89%
Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers
$59,810
+8.1% growth 89% AI-proof

HVAC Technology Career Guide

From day-one roles to senior positions, HVAC Technology careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering skilled trades.

Read the full HVAC Technology career guide →

Compare & Explore

HVAC Technology Overview

HVAC Technology at Other Schools

Other Majors at San Jacinto Community College

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 61/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for HVAC Technology at San Jacinto Community College?
A score of 61/100 puts this program in competitive territory — solid outcomes, though not at the top of the HVAC Technology field.
Is HVAC Technology from San Jacinto Community College a future-proof career choice?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. HVAC Technology work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. San Jacinto Community College's score of 61/100 reflects this durability.
Why does San Jacinto Community College rank so high for HVAC Technology?
The #42 ranking out of 260 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable, and the job market supports this trade.
Why are HVAC Technology earnings lower at San Jacinto Community College?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for HVAC Technology graduates?
The DOL recognizes 15 apprenticeship pathways related to HVAC Technology. For students weighing San Jacinto Community College's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →