Key Takeaways

HVAC technicians in Madison earn a median $51,390/year with 6% job growth and ~122 annual openings in the Milwaukee–Waukesha, WI. Showing accredited programs in Wisconsin that commonly serve the Madison metro.

  • Salary range: $34,340–$73,510+
  • Wisconsin license: not required at state level
  • 2 programs and 1 schools listed for this metro
HVAC in Madison
Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin market rely on year-round heating and cooling demand. Accredited HVAC programs in the region prepare technicians for residential service, commercial installs, and EPA 608 certification.
Salary Range
$34,340 entry-level to $73,510+ for experienced technicians. Median: $51,390/year.
Source: BLS OEWS SOC 49-9021
Job Outlook
+6% projected growth with approximately 122 annual openings in the Milwaukee–Waukesha, WI. Demand outpaces supply in most submarkets.
Top Employers
and dozens of independent contractors hiring entry-level technicians in the Madison area.
Wisconsin HVAC License Requirements
Understanding your state's licensing rules before choosing a program helps you pick a curriculum that meets the requirements.
Wisconsin License: Not Required at State Level
Wisconsin does not require a statewide HVAC license. HVAC contractors must register with DSPS and obtain credentials for certain types of work. Local jurisdictions may require mechanical permits.
Full Wisconsin license requirements →
EPA 608 Certification Guide
Accredited HVAC Schools in Wisconsin
These accredited programs serve the Madison metro area. Filter by format, cost, or certification focus to narrow your results.
Showing accredited programs in Wisconsin that commonly serve the Madison metro.
HVAC Programs Near Madison
AAS DegreeIn-Person

HVAC Associate Degree

Milwaukee Area Technical College
Duration
2 yr
Tuition
$10,200
Credit Hours
60
Job Placement
90%
EPA 608NATE PrepFinancial Aid
All Programs in MadisonView All Wisconsin Programs
From Training to $51,390+/Year
Here's a realistic timeline from starting HVAC school to earning the median salary in the Madison market.
01
Enroll in a Certificate Program
6–12 months. Learn HVAC fundamentals, refrigeration, electrical, and get EPA 608 certified. Most Madison-area programs cost $8,000–$18,000 with financial aid available.
02
Get EPA 608 Certified
Required by federal law before handling refrigerants. Most certificate programs include exam prep. The exam costs $20–$40 and certification never expires.
03
Land Your First Tech Role
Entry-level positions in Madison typically start at $34,340$42,925/year. Many employers offer sign-on bonuses given the current technician shortage.
04
Earn NATE Certification
NATE-certified techs earn 10–20% more on average. Specialize in residential, commercial, or refrigeration to command premium rates in the Madison market.
Also Serving These Madison Suburbs
HVAC programs in Madison serve students from across the metro area including:
Milwaukee, WIWaukesha, WI
HVAC Schools in Madison — Common Questions
Answers to what people searching for HVAC training in Madison ask most.
How much do HVAC technicians make in Madison?
The median HVAC technician salary in the Milwaukee–Waukesha, WI is $51,390 per year, according to BLS OEWS data. Entry-level technicians typically earn $34,340–$42,865 while experienced technicians and journeymen can earn $73,510+.
Do I need a license to work as an HVAC technician in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin does not require a statewide HVAC license. HVAC contractors must register with DSPS and obtain credentials for certain types of work. Local jurisdictions may require mechanical permits.
How long does HVAC training take in Madison?
Most HVAC certificate programs take 6–12 months. Associate degree programs take 18–24 months. HVAC apprenticeship programs in Madison typically take 4–5 years but pay wages from day one. The fastest route to employment is a certificate program followed by an entry-level tech position.
Is the HVAC job market good in Madison?
Yes. The Milwaukee–Waukesha, WI is projected to add approximately 122 HVAC job openings per year, with 6% employment growth through 2032 — above the national average of 6%. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin market rely on year-round heating and cooling demand. Accredited HVAC programs in the region prepare technicians for residential service, commercial installs, and EPA 608 certification.
What certifications do I need to work HVAC in Madison?
EPA Section 608 certification is required by federal law for anyone handling refrigerants, and is mandatory in Madison as elsewhere. Most employers also prefer or require NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification. Wisconsin does not require a state HVAC contractor license, though local permits may apply.
Find Your HVAC School
Near Madison.
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