PSJA ISD Empowers Students for Success in HVAC Industry Through Career & Technical Education 

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry present a fulfilling path for individuals interested in hands-on work, technical skills, and a future in a high-demand field.  

In Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD, students can kickstart their careers and future through various life-changing opportunities offered by the Career & Technical Education Department and PSJA Academies in partnership with South Texas College.  These opportunities are open to all PSJA ISD high school students at no cost.  

Kenneth Villanueva, a junior at PSJA Elvis J. Ballew School of Business & Energy in Pharr, gains a valuable advantage for his post-graduation endeavors by participating in the HVAC program at his campus.  

“When working with my brother-in-law in the HVAC field, I witnessed the job's intricacies and developed a keen interest,” shared Villanueva. “I aspired to earn my HVAC certificate, recognizing the promising future in this field.”  

Villanueva's plan to attain his HVAC certification alongside while in high school is commendable, opening numerous career opportunities.  

The HVAC and Sheet Metal Program of study delves into occupations and educational opportunities associated with installing, servicing, or repairing heating and air conditioning systems. It also covers the fabrication, assembly, installation, and repair of sheet metal products and equipment, including ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings.  

This program may encompass preparing cost estimates for certain construction projects involving heating and air conditioning and sheet metal. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC mechanics and installers may earn a median wage of $51,390 a year, with over 37,700 job openings annually. Many of these job opportunities is anticipated to arise from the necessity to fill positions left vacant by individuals transitioning to alternative occupations or leaving the workforce, such as through retirement.  

After earning his certification, Villanueva can commence work as an HVAC mechanic to accumulate valuable field experience. Opting to further his education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business may unlock additional career pathways in the HVAC industry, such as HVSC sales, management, or entrepreneurship.  

PSJA ISD, an open enrollment school district catering to over 30,000 students, welcomes students living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley. Parents interested in exposing their children to Career & Technical Education opportunities can find more information at www.psjaisd.us/earlycollegeprogram