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If you want a hands-on career where you work with tools, solve problems, and help people stay comfortable year-round, HVAC is a solid choice. In Oregon, trained HVAC technicians are needed in both residential and commercial settings. To start, you'll need proper training from a trade school or community college program.
Here's what you need to know about finding the best HVAC schools in Oregon and getting started.
How to Become an HVAC Technician in Oregon
Oregon does not have a single "HVAC license." Instead, the requirements depend on the type of work you plan to do. Most HVAC technicians start with an entry-level certificate and work toward state or federal credentials.
Typical steps:
- Get formal training from an accredited HVAC program.
- Earn EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants.
- Gain hands-on experience through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
- Apply for specialty licenses if doing electrical or contractor-level work in Oregon.
The Oregon Building Codes Division oversees mechanical contractor licenses, while electrical work is regulated by the Oregon Board of Examiners for Electrical and Elevator Contractors.
Oregon also recognizes apprenticeships as a path to becoming a journeyman HVAC worker. Apprenticeships combine classroom learning with paid experience.
What to Look for in an HVAC School
Not all programs are the same. When comparing HVAC schools in Oregon, pay attention to:
- Accreditation (look for nationally recognized accrediting agencies)
- EPA certification prep included in the curriculum
- Hands-on training facilities with real-world HVAC units
- Apprenticeship partnerships with local unions or companies
- Job placement assistance for graduates
- Flexible schedules for working adults
Top HVAC Schools and Training Programs in Oregon
Below are some of the known options for HVAC training across the state.
Portland Community College (PCC) - HVAC/R Technician Program
- Location: Portland, OR
- Offers a certificate program in HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration).
- Includes instruction on electrical systems, refrigeration cycles, and system troubleshooting.
- Strong ties with local employers for internships and job placement.
- Location: Salem, OR
- Offers HVAC coursework as part of the Building Inspection Technology program.
- Prepares students for both residential and commercial systems.
- Good option if you plan to work in both installation and code enforcement.
- Location: Eugene, OR
- Focuses on HVAC in an energy efficiency and sustainability context.
- Includes hands-on lab work plus building energy systems design.
- Recognized for its strong sustainability focus.
- Location: Oregon City, OR
- Partners with Oregon Air Conditioning Contractors Association for apprenticeships.
- Combines classroom theory with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training over 4 years.
- Ideal for those looking for a paid learning route.
- Location: Grants Pass, OR
- Offers HVAC courses covering installation, maintenance, and repair.
- Prepares students for EPA Section 608 exam.
- Small class sizes for more instructor time.
| School Name | Location | Program Type | EPA Cert Prep Included |
| Portland CC | Portland | Certificate | Yes |
| Chemeketa CC | Salem | Coursework/Certificate | Yes |
| Lane CC | Eugene | Specialization/Certificate | Yes |
| Clackamas CC | Oregon City | Apprenticeship | Yes |
| Rogue CC | Grants Pass | Certificate | Yes |
HVAC Certification and Licensing in Oregon
At minimum, technicians handling refrigerants must have the EPA Section 608 card. If you work with electrical systems, you may need a Limited Energy Technician or similar electrical license.
Important: Always check with the Oregon Building Codes Division and Oregon Electrical Licensing Office before starting work to make sure you have the correct credentials.
Common certifications to consider:
- EPA Section 608 Certification (Required for refrigeration work)
- NATE Certification (Industry-recognized technical standard)
- HVAC Excellence Certification (Additional professional credential)
Apprenticeship Opportunities
An apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn. HVAC apprentices in Oregon split time between classroom instruction and job site experience.
Typical apprenticeship length: 4 years (about 8,000 hours of work).
How to apply:
- Contact local HVAC unions or trade associations.
- Meet minimum education requirements (usually high school diploma or GED).
- Pass an aptitude test or interview.
- Enroll in related training courses during your apprenticeship.
Choosing the Right Path
If you want the fastest entry into the field, a short-term HVAC certificate can get you started. If you want advanced skills or to work on large commercial systems, consider a 2-year associate degree or a full apprenticeship.
Keep in mind:
- Short programs help you start quicker but may limit future advancement.
- Apprenticeships take longer but provide a paycheck and journeyman status.
- Community college degrees open doors to management or design roles.
Next Steps
Here's what you should do now:
- Make a list of HVAC schools within commuting distance in Oregon.
- Visit each school's website or admissions office.
- Ask if they include EPA 608 testing in their program.
- Compare costs, schedules, and job placement rates.
- Apply to at least two programs to keep options open.
If you commit to training and get the right certifications, you can join Oregon's skilled HVAC workforce with confidence.
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