Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Fort Hays Tech North Central

In Kansas, HVAC programs typically produce stronger first-year earnings than the national average—around $41,000 compared to the national median of $35,749. Fort Hays Tech North Central's estimated outcomes fall below this state benchmark, with comparable programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $35,749 and debt near $9,300. By year four, however, graduates reach $44,431, which demonstrates the steady income growth common in skilled trades.

The debt picture looks manageable. With an estimated ratio of 0.26, students would owe roughly three months of their first year's salary—well below the concerning threshold of 1.0. Other Kansas schools like Kansas City Kansas Community College and Manhattan Area Technical College report first-year earnings in the $39,000-$43,000 range, suggesting Fort Hays Tech North Central's graduates may be starting somewhat behind their in-state peers, though the gap narrows considerably by year four.

The key question is whether this program delivers the same value as nearby alternatives. The four-year earnings of $44,431 are solid for a certificate program, and the modest debt load won't create financial strain. But if your child can access one of the higher-performing HVAC programs in Kansas—where graduates report earning $7,000 more right out of the gate—that head start could be worth the comparison shopping, especially since HVAC certification tends to be portable across the state.