HVAC Technology at South Texas College

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

with a mid-sized student body of 16,131 in McAllen, TX.

Program Analysis

South Texas College's HVAC Technology graduates start at $22,822/yr, trailing the $36,779 national average by 38%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

The 31.0x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.

AI risk is moderate — 11% task exposure — and the 22% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for HVAC Technology graduates.

At #254 out of 260 programs, South Texas College's financial outcomes for HVAC Technology trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.

The five-year earnings trajectory from $22,822 to $29,167 shows 28% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.

With 15 registered apprenticeships mapped to HVAC Technology, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.

39 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
37
Low End
39
Score
39
High End
Earnings $22,822/yr (-38% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (89% shielded)
Job Market Large (40,100 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$305K
6.3% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
31.0x
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)
$9,840
Out-of-state: $15,000
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$29,167
28% 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

Explore what HVAC Technology graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 260 programs nationwide.

Read the full HVAC Technology career guide →

Compare & Explore

HVAC Technology Overview

HVAC Technology at Other Schools

Other Majors at South Texas College

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for HVAC Technology at South Texas College?
At 39/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring HVAC Technology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is HVAC Technology from South Texas 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. South Texas College's score of 39/100 reflects this durability.
Can you still earn well with HVAC Technology from South Texas College?
Starting salary is one data point. If South Texas College's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a HVAC Technology program at South Texas College?
Beyond South Texas College's classroom route, 15 registered apprenticeships map to HVAC Technology careers — including Air & Hydronic Balancing Technician. Apprenticeships trade shorter program length for longer on-the-job training, typically 2-4 years.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →