and require much study and practice. Electrical comprehension is a high priority focus within the program. A good understanding of electrical technology is the best way to be successful within the HVAC/R industry as a technician or engineer. Electrical issues account for almost 90 percent of HVAC/R issues and account for a tremendous portion of the design processes. To truly educate a student in electrical comprehension requires the department to work diligently. The highest level of classroom academics is required as well as much time spent in the lab constructing circuits and performing diagnostics. This must all be done while not abandoning other areas of the HVAC skill sets. The program at Wallace State believes that this is the best way to approach HVAC/R training and gives the students the best possible chance at success. Also, the program offers multiple certifications that prepare the students for future higher-level certifications and also aid students in entry-level employment. The certifications are offered through our accreditor, “HVAC Excellence,� (ESCO Institute) and are recognized by the industry. These certifications include the mandated EPA Section 608 Certification and various other specialized areas. Future Plans: The department must continually evolve in a positive direction to become the best and remain the best. The industry is continually in a state of change and demands higher levels of achievement and comprehension from its work force. Moving forward, the department will continue to encourage high levels of academic achievement in order to meet workplace needs. Students will be exposed to the traditional scientific principles that are the foundation of the industry. Faculty will make electrical technology a focus of the program as it is the greatest need of the industry and also the greatest deficiency. Students will be trained in the use of all the required tools and equipment to perform tasks in a manner that meets all requisite standards. In addition, the program will move into new areas of science that are becoming a part of the industry. These areas include energy conservation, health, standard of living issues, and environmental concerns. The program will begin to teach these areas as part of current curriculum and then develop new curriculum to support advances. Also, the program will begin to acquire new equipment and trainers that will aid in practical learning within these special areas. It is a goal to train students to be prepared for immediate entry into the industry workforce as qualified technicians by offering them a basic education that will support them in specializing in many different areas. In addition, the program intends to guide students toward further educational attainment, encouraging them to pursue careers in fields such as engineering, education, and business.
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