According to TSTC graduate survey information, graduates of the Associate of Applied Science degree program earn average starting salaries of more than $30,200 a year. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates median annual earnings of over $29,000 for heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers in 1998. The middle 50 percent of those professionals earned between $11.04 and $17.90 an hour, or approximately $22,900 to $37,200. Many larger companies provide benefits such as health and life insurance, retirement plans, profit sharing plans and paid sick and vacation leave.

• digital volt ohm meters;
• recovery units;
• electronic thermometers;
• air flow hoods;
• velometers;
• manifold pressure gauges;
• vacuum pumps; and
• soldering and brazing torches.