The College of Southern Maryland’s Center for Trades and Energy Training has been approved as a certification testing facility by North American Technician Excellence, the leading nonprofit certification program for technicians in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration industry and the only test supported by the entire industry.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2010 and 2020 the growth rate for HVAC/R mechanics and installers will be 34 percent — significantly higher than other occupations. In 2010, according to BLS, the median pay for HVAC/R mechanics and installers was $42,530 per year.

“This recognition by NATE will allow our HVAC students to do their certification training in Southern Maryland — giving them greater marketability when they pursue employment. Employers will be able to tout NATE-certified technicians to their customers,” said Director Ricky C. Godbolt CTET said in a college news release. “Being able to compete in the job market is critical. Becoming certified shows initiative and a desire to excel. These factors may be the difference between unemployment and employment.”

NATE certification tests represent working knowledge of HVAC and HVAC/R systems and are designed to allow workers to be certified in specific knowledge areas.

For a schedule of classes, go to www.csmd.edu/CareerStarters/HVACHelper.html.