Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR) at San Jacinto Community College

In Texas, HVAC programs show considerable variation in outcomes, and without school-specific data, we're working with broader estimates here. San Jacinto's program appears positioned around the national median—comparable programs nationally produce first-year earnings around $41,438, substantially above the $22,822 reported by similar programs in Texas. That gap suggests this program may perform better than typical in-state alternatives, though we can't confirm San Jacinto's actual graduate outcomes.

The estimated debt load of $12,000 is notably below the national median of $17,500 for HVAC programs, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29. If earnings materialize near the national benchmark, graduates would owe roughly three months' salary—a reasonable burden for entering a skilled trade with steady demand. HVAC technicians typically see wage growth as they gain certifications and experience, so the initial earning power matters less than it might in fields with flatter trajectories.

The practical challenge is that we're comparing an estimate to actual Texas data that looks much weaker. If this program actually performs closer to the $22,822 state median, that same debt becomes nearly half a year's earnings—a very different calculation. For a two-year investment in a hands-on trade, you'd want confidence the program delivers job placement and connections to employers who pay competitively. Before committing, verify what San Jacinto's recent graduates actually earn and where they're finding work.