Technical Standards

Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology Program Technical Standards

A student looking to enroll in the Air Condition, Heating and Refrigeration Technology program (degree, certificate, and / or diploma) at Pitt Community College must meet the following technical standards:

The student must:

1. Be able to clearly and effectively communicate with others, at moderate distances and without line of sight.
2. Be able to understand orders, instructions and descriptions and be able to read and comprehend technical manuals, manufacturer’s specifications and instructions, and warning labels in English.
3. Have good peripheral vision and depth perception.
4. Have sufficient visual capacity to read blueprints, sketches, schematic diagrams and other printed documents including but not limited to tape measures, architect and engineer scales, meters and testers.
5. Be able to effectively use a computer with a manual keyboard, mouse, and viewing a monitor / screen.
6. Be able to perform simple mathematical calculations including adding and subtracting whole numbers, fractions and decimals. (Successfully completed MAT 003)
7. Understand that due to the nature of the work being done in this curriculum, to be successful in this curriculum the student must take notes, read all required books and materials and study. Attendance is mandatory in this program.
8. Be able to distinguish between tones of various pitches and differentiate between the primary colors.
9. Be able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs and be able to reach, manipulate, and operate equipment necessary for laboratory work.
10. Be able to wear all appropriate and required PPE (personal protective equipment) at all times on the construction site and in the labs. PPE includes but not limited to safety glasses, closed-toe shoes, hard-hats, safety harnesses, and fall protection gear.  PPE is used as required in the performance of specific duties by the industry and to meet OSHA requirements and regulations. Must be able to wear a tool pouch for up to 10 hours per day.
11. Need to be able to safely move around the jobsite, which includes crawling into tight spaces, confined spaces, climbing and working on a ladder and working at various heights.
12. Understand that in this industry, students will be exposed to various chemicals including but not limited to; acids, acid-like chemicals, solvents, glues, cleaners, oils and refrigerants.
13. Must not have a debilitating fear of insects, spiders, snakes or lizards.

Professions within this industry are comprised of many different positions which includes both office and field / on-site positions.  Careers can include aspects from both. Field / on-site positions provide the greatest exposure to many inherent risks and safety factors, which may affect the student and others.  The ability to communicate, make reasonably good decisions, be self-motivated and self-directed, and work well in teams should be an important consideration for individuals desiring to enter this program and profession.

Revised 2/5/2020