Whenever you are choosing a school, whether it be for a traditional college degree or for a technical education, there are many issues you need to look into. Here are some places where you can find technical training. Explore these options and decide which one will benefit you for your future career path.
WHERE TO GO:
What To Look For When Choosing a Training Program; Ask The Following Questions Before You Enroll.
1. How much hands-on training is available? Some programs can have a great deal of hands-on training, which allows students to see first hand how equipment works and gives students the chance to apply classroom theory to actual equipment. A certain amount of hands-on learning is necessary. Try to avoid a program that never leaves the classroom or does not make use of lab time. Also, find out how many students there are to each piece of lab equipment.2. What is the job placement rate? Ask what the chances are of finding a job after you finish the program. Find out how the program helps students find employment. You may also want to find out if there is an opportunity to intern or work for a contractor while you learn.
3. What is the student success rate? Not only should you find out how many students have jobs after they graduate, but how many students finish the courses. If there is a low rate of student retention, it may be that students did not feel they were learning or were unsatisfied with the program. Try to interview a recent graduate.
4. What is the background of the teachers? Many hvacr instructors started in the industry as a service technician or a contractor. Instructors who have spent a great deal of time in the field before becoming an instructor can tell you exactly what to expect from a technical point of view and even from a practical level.
5. Who has accredited the school? When a school says that it is accredited it means that an outside organization or association has evaluated the educational program and found it to meet certain requirements. It is not only important to find out if your school is accredited, but who gave the accreditation. Some organizations accredit by industry guidelines, while other organizations accredit by their own standards. Find out if the accrediting organization is legitimate. 6. What is the school’s relationship with the industry? You will want to find out how close the school comes to following industry standards and reaching out to the local industry. It may say a lot about a school if they reach out to area contractors to not only better the program, but also better the working situations for area businesses. Finally, find out if the school uses an industry supported test as a course completer, such as the Industry Competency Exam (ICE). This is important because it will allow you to see if what you have learned is relevant to what the industry believes technicians should know.
For Tech Page information or to request copies, contact J.J. Siegel, training and education editor; 248-244-1731; 248-362-0317 (fax); siegelj@bnp.com (e-mail).
Publication date: 01/15/2001
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