Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at Pennco Tech-Blackwood

Pennco Tech's HVAC program places graduates into stable, immediate-earning trades jobs—but what you see at graduation is essentially what you get. Starting at $39,632, earnings barely budge over the next four years, raising questions about long-term career progression. Among New Jersey's HVAC programs, this sits at the state median (60th percentile), meaning about half the programs produce better outcomes. Nationally, it performs better at the 71st percentile, though this largely reflects New Jersey's higher cost of living boosting all local wages.

The program's strength lies in its efficiency: at $12,968 in median debt, graduates owe just 33 cents for every dollar of first-year earnings. That's a manageable burden that can typically be paid off within a few years, especially important given that nearly 60% of students receive Pell grants. The debt sits slightly above the state median but remains reasonable for immediate job placement.

The stagnant earnings trajectory is the central concern here. When a program shows zero wage growth over four years, it suggests graduates may be hitting a ceiling quickly—perhaps staying in entry-level technician roles rather than moving into supervisory positions or specializations. For families prioritizing financial security, this program delivers quick employment with low debt, but it's worth understanding that the $39,000 salary is likely where your child will remain without additional training or entrepreneurship.