The commercial refrigeration industry is differentiated from the air conditioning industry by both the temperatures maintained, 45 degrees F and lower, and the equipment serviced. The commercial refrigeration field encompasses such prevalent equipment as refrigerators, freezers, soft drink machines, water coolers, ice machines, cryo-freezers as found in hospitals and research laboratories, and a range of others. Graduates will be prepared to install, service and sell commercial refrigeration equipment. The Commercial Refrigeration associate degree will allow graduate to work in sales as well as be trained as an applications engineer.
What skills do students learn in this program?
Students in the Commercial Refrigeration associate degree program gain skills in refrigeration principles and practices, systems components, HVACR electrical fundamentals, electrical motors, components and controls, troubleshooting air conditioning, residential system design, commercial refrigeration design and servicing commercial refrigeration systems.
Additionally, students will participate in internship where they work with a company for a set number of hours to prepare them for work in the field.
Learning opportunities develop academic, occupational and professional knowledge and skill required for job acquisition, retention and advancement. The program emphasizes a combination of theory and practical application necessary for successful employment.
What types of students thrive in the program and in this career field? Those who:
- are mechanically inclined
- have strong soft skills
- employ good work ethics
What types of jobs are available to graduates of this program? Where can they work?
The employment opportunities range from service and installation of residential and commercial HVAC systems to work as refrigeration mechanics, maintenance mechanics and service technicians that specialize in troubleshooting problems. Graduates may work for property managements, service companies, hotels and retail companies that utilize supermarket refrigeration.