Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Coconino Community College

Based on comparable HVAC programs across Arizona, graduates typically earn around $35,744 in their first year—right at the national median for this credential. The estimated $9,300 in debt sits below both state and national averages, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26. That's manageable debt for a skilled trade, though it's worth noting that Arizona's HVAC market shows significant variation: the top program produces graduates earning $48,000, while others cluster in the low-to-mid $30,000s.

The challenge here is uncertainty. Because Coconino's program is too small for the Department of Education to report actual outcomes, we're relying on broader market indicators rather than this school's specific track record. The modest debt estimate suggests reasonable costs, and HVAC work offers steady demand in Arizona's climate. However, location matters in this field—Flagstaff's smaller market and higher elevation (less cooling demand) could affect local opportunities compared to Phoenix-area programs where earnings data skews higher.

For families considering this path, the fundamentals look sound: relatively low debt for entry into a stable trade. But given the lack of program-specific data and Flagstaff's unique market conditions, visiting the campus to understand job placement support and local employer connections becomes essential rather than optional. You're betting on reasonable odds, not proven results.