Architecture & ConstructionSouth Carolina

HVAC Technology in South Carolina

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South Carolina's HVAC Technology pathway develops skilled technicians for the state's heating, cooling, and ventilation industry. South Carolina's climate demands efficient HVAC systems year-round, creating consistent employment opportunities.

Students study thermodynamics, refrigeration systems, ductwork design, and building code compliance. They gain hands-on experience in training labs and working on real systems in commercial and residential buildings.

Graduates work as HVAC technicians, system designers, building maintenance specialists, or start service businesses. Opportunities exist with HVAC contractors, property management companies, manufacturing facilities, and hospitality operations throughout the state. Many pursue EPA refrigerant certifications and advanced technical credentials.

HVAC Technology at a Glance

4

Courses

8

Credentials

4

Career Paths

State Standards & Framework

South Carolina HVAC standards align with EPA requirements, building codes, and industry standards. Standards cover refrigeration systems, electrical controls, and customer service.

Students complete EPA refrigerant certification exams and competency assessments in system installation, diagnosis, and repair. State standards emphasize energy efficiency and green HVAC technologies.

View South Carolina CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

Course
HVAC Technology 1
HVAC Technology 2
HVAC Technology 3
HVAC Technology 4

View South Carolina course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

Career Opportunities

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.

HVAC Technician

Entry Level
$46,800in South Carolina
National: $47,850-2%

Salary range: $46,800 - $61,310

Adjusted for cost of living: $50,225

-0.1% growth2,400 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

HVAC System Designer

Experienced
$55,260in South Carolina
National: $59,810-8%

Salary range: $46,800 - $61,310

Adjusted for cost of living: $59,305

-0.1% growth2,400 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Service Manager

Experienced
$63,080in South Carolina
National: $65,310-3%

Salary range: $53,460 - $81,760

Adjusted for cost of living: $67,697

+3% growth600 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Independent HVAC Contractor

Experienced
$55,260in South Carolina
National: $59,810-8%

Salary range: $46,800 - $61,310

Adjusted for cost of living: $59,305

-0.1% growth2,400 openings/yr
Search jobs on Indeed →

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students intern with HVAC contractors, property management companies, hospitality facilities, and manufacturing plants across South Carolina.

Career & Technical Student Organization

Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.

How Sage Helps South Carolina CTE Programs

AI-Powered Curriculum

Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months

South Carolina Standards Built In

Pre-loaded with South Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks

Teacher Customization

Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment

Ongoing Updates

Curriculum stays current as South Carolina standards and industry needs evolve

Related Pathways in South Carolina

Architecture and Construction

South Carolina's Architecture and Construction pathway prepares students for careers in the state's thriving construction industry. This comprehensive program covers residential and commercial construction, carpentry, masonry, electrical systems, plumbing, and construction management. With South Carolina experiencing significant population growth and ongoing infrastructure development, the construction industry provides abundant career opportunities throughout the state. The pathway emphasizes both traditional construction crafts and modern building technologies including green building practices, building information modeling (BIM), and sustainable construction methods. Students gain hands-on experience through construction laboratory projects, actual building construction, and partnerships with local construction companies and contractors. The curriculum integrates safety training, blueprint reading, building codes, and construction mathematics essential for success in the trades. South Carolina's Construction Technology programs often involve students in community service projects, building real structures such as sheds, playhouses, or tiny homes that demonstrate mastery of construction skills while serving community needs. Graduates are prepared for immediate employment as apprentice tradespeople, continuation to construction management programs, or establishment of their own contracting businesses.

Construction

Electrical Technology

South Carolina's Electrical Technology pathway prepares students for careers as electricians and electrical technicians. The state's growth in manufacturing, commercial development, and infrastructure creates strong demand for skilled electrical professionals. Students study circuit theory, wiring systems, safety protocols, and electrical code compliance. They develop practical skills in school laboratories and job sites, learning both residential and commercial electrical systems. Graduates work as electricians, electrical technicians, solar installers, or building automation specialists. Many pursue apprenticeships leading to journeyman and master electrician licenses. Employment opportunities exist with electrical contractors, utilities, manufacturing facilities, and new construction projects across the state.

Architecture & Construction

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