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

Lake Technical College's HVAC program produces first-year earnings of $38,339—well above both the state median ($31,997) and national median ($35,749) for similar programs. That positions this program in the 60th percentile statewide, meaning graduates typically outearn those from three-fifths of Florida's 66 HVAC programs. While debt figures are estimated from similar certificate programs nationally at around $9,300, the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 suggests manageable repayment: graduates would owe roughly three months of their first-year salary.

The challenge for families lies in the performance gap above. Five Florida HVAC programs report significantly higher earnings, with Manatee Technical College topping out at $45,926—nearly $8,000 more annually than Lake Technical graduates make. These differences matter in a skilled trade where strong regional networks and employer connections can substantially impact early career placement and wages. The estimated debt load is modest enough that it shouldn't derail anyone's finances, but the earnings ceiling here appears lower than at competing programs within driving distance.

For parents evaluating this program, the value proposition is decent but not exceptional. Your child would likely enter the workforce earning more than most Florida HVAC graduates while carrying manageable debt, but they might miss out on the stronger earning potential available at top-tier programs elsewhere in the state. If proximity to Eustis is the deciding factor, the numbers work—just know you're not choosing the highest-performing option available.