Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program will introduce you to the field of heating, refrigeration and air conditioning with an emphasis on renewable, sustainable and alternative energy efficient solutions.
Program Information
Start Date
January 05, 2026
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Accepting Applications
CIP Code
15.0501
Program Code
HVT
Delivery
In Person
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Domestic Tuition
per semester*
International Tuition
per semester*
View Curriculum
September 08, 2026
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Accepting Applications
CIP Code
15.0501
Program Code
HVT
Delivery
In Person
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Domestic Tuition
per semester*
International Tuition
per semester*
*Domestic tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
*International tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
View Curriculum
January 11, 2027
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Closed
CIP Code
15.0501
Program Code
HVT
Delivery
In Person
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Domestic Tuition
per semester*
International Tuition
per semester*
*Domestic tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
*International tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
Apply Now
Canadian StudentsView Curriculum
Protecting the environment, reducing climate changes and increasing sustainable practices have contributed to the need for energy-efficient practices in the heating, refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Our compressed three-semester diploma program will prepare you for employment in this field:
- Our program has been specifically designed to address the changing employment and environmental needs of the industry and includes the course, Mech 222 — Renewable Energy Sources, focusing on geothermal and solar in comparison to more traditional heating and cooling systems.
- Our program provides you with theoretical and practical skills to install, service, maintain and update heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
The program is divided into three terms.
- After successful completion of the provincial practical requirements at the end of term one, students can apply to write for Oil Burner Technician – Level 3 (OBT-3) and Gas Technician – Level 3 (G-3) certificates of qualification.
- After successful completion of the provincial practical requirements at the end of term three, students can apply to write for Oil Burner Technician – Level 2 (OBT-2) and Gas Technician – Level 2 (G-2) certificates of qualification.
Students are required to attend 80% of all classes in order to write their TSSA Gas and Oil exams.
Gas and Oil Technician – Level 3 (OBT-3 and G-3) deals with workplace safety, tools, characteristics of natural gas and oil, codes/regulations, basic electricity, technical specifications, customer relations, basic piping systems, and an introduction to gas and oil appliances.
Gas and Oil Technician – Level 2 (OBT-2 and G-2) focuses on advanced piping/tubing systems, electricity, controls, systems, appliances, gas meters, pressure regulators, gas and oil-fired refrigerators, conversion burners, water heaters, forced warm air heating systems, hydronic heating systems, space heating, venting practices, forced air add-on devices, and air handling.
Graduates of this program will have an opportunity to obtain industry related health and safety certifications. You will also have Grade 12 Math equivalency.
I came from a sales background in electronics and had very little hands-on experience with tools. A friend had taken the Fleming Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician (HRAC) program and suggested I take it too. After some research, I applied and nervously entered the program. I wasn't sure what to expect or if I would be able to succeed in a trades environment, but the instructors were extremely patient and understanding. They started with the basic of the basics and built my foundation of knowledge up. Every course had unique challenges but the instructors had my back every step of the way. They assured me that with the right attitude and effort I would be successful, they hit the nail right on the head! By third semester I was much more confident in my abilities and kept building on that foundation from previous semesters. The individual lessons and topics started to come together, I was making connections, and started to see “HVAC” as a whole.
I am in the career and position I am today because of the Fleming HRAC team! I learned so much and still am because of what they have instilled in me: Never Stop Learning.
J. Schnettler, Graduate (2018)
The program runs continuously over 45 weeks, beginning in September.
As an accredited training institution registered with the Technical Standard Safety Authority (TSSA), this program offers applicable skills whether you are planning to enter the field, or you are currently working in the heating, refrigeration and air conditioning field and wish to update your skills.
Graduates of the program may obtain employment as heating, refrigeration and air conditioning technicians (HVAC technician) as well as through affiliated trade apprenticeships in plumbing, pipefitting, electrical, sheet metal, and refrigeration.
Additional opportunities exist within sectors such as:
- Hydronics
- Geothermal
- Building Automation Systems
- Heat Loss/Heat Gain Design
- Wholesale fuel suppliers
- Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers, and customers.
- Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
- Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
- Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
- Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
- Install, service, and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.
Students applying to Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician must meet the following requirements:
- OSSD with Gr 12 C English and Gr 12 C Math**Minimum final grade of 55% in Gr 12 C Math
PC / Windows
- Operating System:Windows 10
- Processor:Core i5 - 1.6Ghz minimum
- Memory:8GB minimum
- Hard Disk:160GB minimum
Internet Connection: 2.5 Mbps Download and 3.0 Mbps Upload (minimum)
Transfer Agreements
You may be able to use credits obtained at Fleming College to continue your postsecondary education in pursuit of a degree. The articulation and credit transfer agreements with our partner institutions are summarized here.
Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies and Digital Technology
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to Ontario Tech's website for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Bachelor of Commerce
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
- Completion of the Ontario Tech Commerce Bridge.
Transfer Credit
- 45 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
Requirement
- Minimum 65% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- Entry into 5th semester standing in an 8-semester program.
- Refer to Seneca College's website for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Colleges website.
For more information
Visit the Seneca Polytechnic website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
See the official articulation agreement.
In The News: Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
Peterborough, ON (October 4, 2024) – Six Fleming College alumni have been selected as nominees for the distinguished Premier’s Awards this year.
Founded in 1992, the Premier’s Awards are administered by Colleges Ontario, the advocacy voice for Ontario’s 24 colleges.
This annual celebration recognizes the important social and economic contributions college graduates make on a provincial and global scale. Colleges can nominate alumni in seven categories: Skilled Trades, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Science, Technology and Engineering.
The Fleming College nominees for 2024 are:
Skilled Trades
Dylan Stadtke: Mechanical Techniques Plumbing (2016), HVAC Technician (2018)
The co-owner of Pristine Plumbing Peterborough, Dylan’s business is thriving, reflecting his dedication to high professional standards and community involvement. In addition to two Fleming diplomas, Dylan completed the Construction Leadership Program at Fleming in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to leadership and excellence in his field. Beyond his professional achievements, Dylan is deeply committed to men’s mental health and is a strong proponent of promoting women in trades. His dedication to these important issues underscores his role as a leader and innovator in his industry.
Health Sciences
Francine Sam: Practical Nursing (2024)
Francine Sam began her nursing career while living in Australia where she was enrolled in university for nursing. She ended up moving to a rural village in northern Uganda where she did humanitarian work for seven years alongside her young family, caring for vulnerable children and their communities. It was through her experiences there that compelled her to further her education at Fleming College. Francine recently graduated as a Practical Nurse and was the Valedictorian of the School of Health and Community Services and is now working as a Registered Practical Nurse in the Emergency Department at her local hospital.
Community Services
Heather George: Museum Management and Curatorship (2008)
Heather George is an influential leader in the Canadian museum sector. As Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, she advocates for Indigenous perspectives and creates opportunities for Indigenous artists and curators. As the Past President of the Canadian Museum Association and current Vice President for the Indigenous Heritage Circle, Heather advances the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #67, urging museums to engage in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. In 2021, she led a national review of museum policies in relation to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). This review involved Indigenous communities and museum professionals, culminating in recommendations to change sector standards and develop federal repatriation laws.
Science, Technology and Engineering
Matthew Wilson: Conservation Biology (2024)
In 2022, Matthew Wilson made a significant decision to leave his career in the shipping industry and return to school. He was driven by a desire to pursue a more meaningful path, he chose to focus on addressing the pressing environmental and natural world challenges facing our planet today. Matt has always had a deep passion for animals and nature. Over the years, he has worn many hats, including biologist, arboricultural field technician, and research assistant. Recently, Matt enrolled in the Conservation Biology Program at Fleming College, where he graduated as Valedictorian of the School of Environmental and Natural Resources. Driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact on our climate, Matt is committed to preserving our natural legacy for future generations.
Recent Graduate
Jacques Graveline: Business Administration-Marketing (2022)
Jacques Graveline was a Student Ambassador for Fleming Indigenous Student Services and Fleming Student Administrative Council. He graduated from Fleming College with an Advanced Diploma in Marketing in 2022 and has been extremely involved in the College since. Elected as Board Chair at Fleming SAC in 2023, he passionately advocates for students to ensure an exceptional college experience. Jacques is a leader in the Peterborough community, supporting the United Way homeless initiative and Dragon Boat Races for Breast Cancer, while creating and implementing marketing strategies as the Marketing Assistant at Bridges Peterborough. Jacques is currently the Governance and Advocacy Coordinator with the Fleming Student Administrative Council.
Creative Arts and Design
Aaron Robitaille: Graphic Design-Visual Communication Advanced Diploma (2020)
A 2020 graduate of Fleming College’s Graphic Design (GDV) program and recipient of the Muriel Cooper Award for Design Excellence, Aaron launched "Aaron Robitaille Design" and developed notable branding for Haven Brewing Company. Her expertise spans large-scope murals, websites, and mentoring local artists, with work featured across Ontario. She is currently an instructor at Fleming College and acts as Vice Chair and member on Artspace’s Board of Directors, Peterborough’s only artist-run centre. The GDV program’s comprehensive training and community partnerships were pivotal in her success, fostering a blend of art and design that continues to drive her career and contributions to the local arts community.
The Premier’s Award nominees will be recognized at a gala event in Toronto on November 25, where the winners will be announced.
To nominate a deserving Fleming graduate for a 2025 Premier’s Award, please contact the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office at 705-749-5530 ext. 1197 or email alumni@flemingcollege.ca.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Asher Lurie
Director, Communications
asher.lurie@flemingcollege.ca
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.
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