Is HVAC a STEM career?

Author: Ms. Beatrice Stiedemann MD  |  Last update: Sunday, December 21, 2025

STEM is the skilled trades of plumbing, heating and cooling (HVAC) and electrical.

Is HVAC considered STEM?

STEM is the skilled trades of plumbing, heating, and cooling (HVAC) and electrical.

What field does HVAC fall under?

Mechanical Engineers with HVAC expertise are professionals who specialize in the design of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems for all types of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

What is considered a STEM career?

STEM is an acronym that stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM careers entail the use of science, tech, engineering, and/or math. Examples of STEM jobs include mechanical engineer, math teacher, biologist, and computer programmer.

What does HVAC fall under?

HVAC system design is a subdiscipline of mechanical engineering, based on the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.

HVAC Engineer | CAREERwise Education

Is HVAC considered engineering?

An HVAC engineer is a mechanical engineer who designs ventilation, conditioning and heating systems for buildings such as offices, schools or residential spaces. HVAC engineers are usually professionals who have previous expertise in plumbing and electricity, which helps them understand climate control systems.

What degrees fall under STEM?

STEM degrees include majors that fall within science, technology, engineering and mathematics. For instance, computer science and environmental science are two different types of STEM degrees.

What career cluster does HVAC fall under?

Architecture & Construction Career Cluster.

Does HVAC have a future?

HVAC Technicians Are in High Demand

Fortunately, HVAC is one of those careers that is in steady demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the jobs in this sector will grow by 9% by 2033. If you want to learn how to become an HVAC technician, this is the right time.

What type of science is HVAC?

The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) Associate of Applied Science degree prepares the individual for a technical service career in residential or light commercial/industrial environmental systems.

What type of work is HVAC considered?

HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers work on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings.

What is counted as STEM?

You've likely heard the term STEM, but what does it stand for? STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and math. These four fields share an emphasis on innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. And together they make up a popular and fast-growing industry.

Does HVAC have math?

Yes, HVAC does require a certain amount of math. HVAC professionals need to use mathematical concepts for various tasks such as calculating heating and cooling loads, determining the size of HVAC equipment, measuring airflow, and understanding the principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.

What is the highest paid STEM job?

What is the highest paying STEM job? Currently, data scientists and petroleum engineers rank among the highest paying STEM jobs. However, fields like software development, aerospace engineering, and robotics are also known for high salaries, especially with experience and advanced degrees.

What makes a career a STEM career?

A STEM job is any job in the fields of science, technology, engineering or math. With a foundation in these subjects, a STEM career allows you to solve problems, develop new ideas and conduct research.

Is electrician a STEM job?

STEM is the skilled trade of electrical.

How do I know if my degree is STEM?

Students can check the periodically updated list of STEM-designated programs on the Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics' (NCES) website. It's also advisable to check with your school whether your major is STEM-designated.

What major is not STEM?

A non-STEM major is a major that isn't in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. This means non-STEM majors include those in business, literature, education, arts, and humanities.

Is mph a STEM degree?

The MPH in Public Health is not STEM designated. Can I start the MPH program in the Spring or Summer semester? No.

What is HVAC considered as?

HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. A residential HVAC system is a complete home comfort system that can heat and cool your home, as well as provide improved indoor air quality and humidity control.

Is HVAC a good career?

If you are serious about a career as a HVAC technician, or taking on a HVAC apprenticeship take the time to learn the basics and get some in-field experience. Most experienced HVAC techs agree that working in HVAC is a rewarding career that offers good job security and a high salary.

What is the best degree for HVAC?

Online Bachelor's Degrees in HVAC Engineering Technology

While bachelor's degrees in HVAC are rare, some students do choose to pursue a four-year degree in this field. This degree program was designed to help students develop the highest level of expertise when it comes to HVAC systems and their design.

Previous article
Can I mix chrome and black in the bathroom?
Next article
What's better for mold, bleach or vinegar?