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

Fortis College-Norfolk's HVAC program costs less and delivers more than most Virginia alternatives—unusual for a for-profit institution. With debt of just $10,649 (well below the state median of $14,750) and first-year earnings of $32,955, graduates face a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio. More importantly, within Virginia's competitive HVAC market, this program ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings despite serving a predominantly low-income student body (66% receive Pell grants).

The national comparison reveals a tradeoff: earnings trail the $35,749 national median by about $2,800 annually. However, Virginia's HVAC market generally pays less than the national average, making this program's performance relative to in-state peers more relevant for most students. Earnings growth from $32,955 to $37,070 over four years shows steady progression, and the relatively low debt load means graduates aren't burdened while building their careers.

For families weighing Virginia HVAC programs, this represents solid middle-tier value. It's not the strongest earning outcome in the state—Virginia Western Community College graduates earn $7,600 more annually—but the combination of below-average debt and above-average state performance makes it a reasonable path into a stable trade. The robust sample size confirms these aren't outlier results.