CHICAGO - If all goes according to HVAC Excellence's plan, there will be another certification program available before the end of the year. This new certification program will have a different twist. Not only will there be a written test for technicians, but a hands-on qualifying test, too.

HVAC Excellence announced its new Master Specialist certification program at the International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo). To qualify for the title of Master Specialist, a technician must have a minimum of three years field experience and achieve a passing score on the related written professional level HVAC Excellence technician certification exam. The next step will be to pass a hands-on performance test.

"Passing a written exam tells us that the test takers possess knowledge of the subject, but not whether they can apply that knowledge," said Jerry Weis, executive director of HVAC Excellence. "New drivers take a written exam where they demonstrate they have memorized the shape and color signs, and the rules of the road. However, they are still required to pass a driving test, as passing the written exam alone does not mean they can drive. Similarly, knowing which solder to use does not mean that you can solder tubing, pressurize that tubing, and have it leak free."