Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Dorsey College-Wayne

Dorsey College-Wayne's HVAC program sits squarely in the middle of Michigan's technical training landscape—ranking at the 60th percentile statewide for earnings, which means it outperforms most in-state competitors. While the first-year earnings of $33,265 trail the national median by about $2,500, they match Michigan's state median exactly. The program manages to keep debt modest at $9,500, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 that means graduates owe less than three months of their starting salary.

The trajectory looks solid: earnings climb 15% to $38,215 by year four, suggesting graduates are gaining traction in the field and finding better-paying positions as they build experience. The high proportion of Pell recipients (77%) indicates this program serves students who need an accessible path into skilled trades, and the debt burden won't trap them in years of repayment.

For families considering HVAC training in Michigan, this program delivers what it promises—entry to a stable trade without excessive debt. The earnings won't wow anyone initially, but they're competitive for the state, and the growth curve points in the right direction. It's a practical choice that gets students credentialed and working quickly, which is exactly what a certificate program should do.