Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician at Algonquin College

Make yourself more employable: in addition to the diploma, this program prepares you to write TSSA exams.

The two-year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician Ontario College Diploma program delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, is approved by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and is taught in Algonquin`s state-of-the-art Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) building. By studying in the ACCE building, you have the opportunity to work in a fully-outfitted facility where you learn both traditional and advanced technologies used in the industry.

Start the program by learning electrical and heating essentials. All courses have a strong hands-on component. To better prepare you for a career in the industry, vocational subjects are enriched with courses in:

• communications
• mathematics
• related sciences
• computer applications

Continue to enhance your knowledge and skills throughout the remainder of the program, and learn about controls, forced air gas/oil heating systems, hydronics and refrigeration concepts.

Algonquin College`s program also includes an approved curriculum for:

• Gas Technician 3 (G3) and 2 (G2)
• Oil Burner Technician 3 (OBT3) and 2 (OBT2)

This means that you have an opportunity to prepare for and write your TSSA exams, in order to become licensed as a Gas Technician and Oil Burner Technician during the program. At the end of your second term, you may be eligible to apply to write your G3 and OBT3 certificates of qualification. At the end of your final term, you may be eligible to apply for your G2 and OBT2 certificates of qualification, making you more employable in the field.

Upon completing the TSSA exams, you will be able to install, service, maintain and troubleshoot residential heating systems.

Upon graduation, you may find employment opportunities as a service technician or installer. Graduates may also pursue a career in parts or equipment sales with a variety of employers such as:

• residential and commercial heating companies
• air conditioning or refrigeration contractors
• wholesalers
• public utilities
• oil distribution companies
• government

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Enjoy a hands-on approach to learning about the heating, refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
• Are team-oriented and enjoy working with others.
• Are self-reliant and enjoy challenges.

Careers

Graduates may find employment as service technicians, installers, or in parts or equipment sales with a variety of employers, such as residential and commercial heating, air conditioning and refrigeration contractors, wholesalers, public utilities, oil distribution companies and different levels of government.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers, and customers.
2. Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
3. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
4. Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
5. Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
6. Install, service, and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
7. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.
8. Identify and apply discipline specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Program Eligibility

• English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MCT4C is recommended).
• Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
• IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20.

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.