The future looks bright for those with training in the related fields of heating, ventilation and air conditioning. New technology, the demand for service in this field, and ever-changing indoor air quality standards have created a major demand for knowledgeable, trained individuals. One of the fastest growing fields in the United States is building maintenance and because of the combination of courses, Bismarck State College's HVAC program is an excellent training ground for this field.
Technically, the term "air conditioning" includes heating and cooling the indoor environment, circulating and cleaning the air, and adding or removing humidity. The related field of refrigeration includes home and business refrigerators and freezers.
Sheet Metal is also an integral part of the air conditioning and heating industry. BSC is a nationally registered training center for sheet metal & heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, through the National Center for Construction, Education, and Research (NCCER). Students are placed on a national registry after successfully completing individual module exams and tasks.
BSC's program prepares students for entry level employment in this service industry. Students learn to use logical, step-by-step diagnostic procedures in installation and repair. They also master the use and care of basic tools and equipment. They learn to operate by EPA standards and safety standards set by OSHA regulations.
Much of the program is devoted to work in the modern, well equipped lab facilities. Classes meet six hours daily, five days per week, with a portion of each day spent in the classroom studying basic theory, shop management and other related subjects.
Enrollment: A class of 24 students will be enrolled in the HVAC or Combination Technician program each year. Enrollment in the Combination Technician program will be limited to 8 of the 24 students. Students are able to enroll in either the fall or spring semester. The program is 42 weeks in length. Refer to the Admission section of this catalog for application procedures and requirements. Also refer to the limited enrollment program information on page 13.
Required placement scores: ACT Math - 15 or higher Reading - 14 or higher COMPASS Math - pre-algebra 31 or higher Reading - 64 or higher Students who do not meet the above requirements should arrange an interview with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning instructor.
Background in these areas helpful: • Basic algebra and geometry • Basic knowledge of drafting • Working knowledge of a scientific calculator
Industry technical standards: Awareness of the following HVAC industry standards may help students determine if they are suited to this career:
• Must have the ability to perform close accurate work, communicate effectively with others, present information in a clear concise manner, and follow verbal and written instructions. • Requires good finger dexterity, good vision, and hearing. • Requires continuous walking, frequent standing, bending, stooping, climbing ladders and stairs, kneeling, lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, and carrying long or oversized loads. • Frequently requires working over your head. • Requires continuous use of hand tools and frequent use of power tools. • Frequently exposed to noise, dirt, dust, fumes, chemicals, extreme heat and cold, vibration, and confined areas.
