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

Fortis College-Centerville's HVAC program hits right at Ohio's median for earnings while keeping debt about 25% lower than typical four-year programs—a practical combination for a trade certification. Graduates earn $36,981 in their first year, matching the state median exactly and landing in the 60th percentile among Ohio's 32 HVAC programs. That $13,000 debt load translates to a manageable 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe just over four months' salary.

The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to nearly $40,000 by year four, which is solid for trade work that doesn't require ongoing credentials. With 71% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves working-class families seeking accessible skilled trade pathways. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates means these numbers are reliable, not statistical noise.

While several Ohio programs produce slightly higher earners—Butler Tech and Eastland-Fairfield graduates start around $40,000-$41,000—Fortis Centerville offers a dependable middle-ground option. For a student who needs flexible scheduling or location convenience in the Dayton area, this program provides reasonable return on investment without the debt burden that often accompanies proprietary schools. It's not the absolute best HVAC training in Ohio, but it's a legitimate pathway to steady trade income at a price point that won't crush your finances.