Trenholm State Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Alabama / Trenholm State Community College
Trenholm State Community College – Montgomery, AL
Programs Offered
- HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) Technology
- Certificate and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree Options
Program Overview
The HVAC/R Technology Program at Trenholm State Community College provides students with the knowledge and technical skills to install, service, and maintain residential, commercial, and industrial climate-control systems. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with extensive hands-on lab experience, covering topics such as refrigeration theory, electrical systems, air distribution, and environmental control technologies.
Students receive real-world training using industry-standard equipment, preparing them for immediate employment or advanced certification in heating and cooling systems.
Hands-On Training
Trenholm State’s HVAC/R labs replicate professional service environments, allowing students to work with modern refrigeration systems, air handlers, furnaces, and diagnostic tools. Training includes charging and recovering refrigerants, wiring controls, troubleshooting system failures, and using industry-grade instrumentation. This practical experience builds the confidence and precision required for professional fieldwork.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Prepares students for EPA Section 608 Certification required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for handling refrigerants.
- Provides foundational knowledge for NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification exams.
- Aligns with HVAC Excellence standards for technical training and safety compliance.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- HVAC/R Technician: Install and maintain heating and cooling systems in homes and businesses.
- Commercial Service Technician: Repair and calibrate larger systems for office buildings, schools, and industrial facilities.
- Refrigeration Specialist: Work with commercial refrigeration and food-service systems.
Program Length
- Certificate Program: Approximately 1 year (two semesters)
- Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree: Approximately 2 years (four semesters)
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completion of basic math and science coursework (algebra and physical science recommended)
- Ability to pass a background check and maintain safe work practices
Cost & Financial Aid
As a member of the Alabama Community College System, Trenholm State offers affordable tuition and flexible scheduling options. Students may qualify for federal and state financial aid programs, scholarships, and workforce development grants. Apprenticeship and internship opportunities may also be available through the college’s industry partnerships.
Location
Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Trenholm State serves central Alabama through its Patterson and Trenholm campuses. The HVAC/R Technology Program provides accessible, career-driven training that meets the growing demand for qualified technicians in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC/R sectors.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for H Councill Trenholm State Community College (Montgomery, AL) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at H Councill Trenholm State Community College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.