(RED OAK, Texas) – When the air conditioning system in the information technology room at Texas State Technical College’s North Texas campus needed some repairs, HVAC Technology instructor Jarrod Tawney turned it into an assignment for two standout students, Elijahwah McCowan and Edward Wilds.
“One of the goals is it gives the students real-world experience outside of our lab, but it also helps TSTC as far as using an inside source versus hiring out,” Tawney said. “(McCowan and Wilds) work well together, so it’s a very good team atmosphere.”
McCowan and Wilds said they were eager to gain the experience.
“I love a challenge,” McCowan said. “Anytime they have anything they need help with, installing a new unit or checking components or troubleshooting, I’m always there.”
McCowan and Wilds both recalled finding several additional issues while repairing the unit, but Wilds did not see this as a bad thing.
“It’s not so easy, which makes it challenging, which makes it invaluable to learn from,” Wilds said. “With the benefit of the hands-on learning, I’ll feel a lot more comfortable in the attic, not with the heat, but knowing what I should do, what I should start with and how to go about the process.”
McCowan and Wilds plan to receive their HVAC Technician certificates of completion from TSTC next December. McCowan plans to continue his education, and Wilds will go into the workforce.
“TSTC means greater opportunities, a platform to give myself a better chance with education and career opportunities,” McCowan said.
According to onetonline.org, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers earn a median salary of $54,050 in Texas, where the number of these jobs was projected to grow 17% between 2022 and 2032.
HVAC Technology is available at TSTC’s Abilene, Fort Bend County, Harlingen, North Texas, Waco and Williamson County campuses. The program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and certificates of completion.
Registration for TSTC’s fall semester is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.