HVAC, auto tech, welding most popular programs at ATU-Ozark

Three of the most popular programs at the Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus (ATU-Ozark) are HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), automotive service tech, and welding, according to university officials.

The programs focus on hands-on training to better equip students for prospective jobs.

“Our students are attracted to these programs because of the job market and high wages. Several students are offered internships towards the end of their program that can turn into full time positions,” said Charis Fox, public relations and marketing specialist for ATU-Ozark.

Arkansas Valley Vocational Technical School (AVVTS) opened in July 1966, and it was the “first of the eight original state-run vocational-technical schools in Arkansas to open following Governor Faubus’s initiative. was created in response to federal and state initiatives to expand vocational training, especially following the Manpower Development and Training Act of 1962 and the Vocational Education Act of 1963,” Fox said.

At that time, the campus offered automotive technology, industrial equipment technology, machine shop, welding, and cosmetology. On July 1, 2003, the campus merged with Russellville-based Arkansas Tech University to become Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus.

The welding program provides training and exposure to all types of welding which means students are not required to choose one focus point. The automotive program runs a live shop so students can gain real-world, hands-on experience.

“Students love the hands-on atmosphere that ATU-Ozark offers. Through the AR Future Grant, all tuition and fees are covered. ATU-Ozark was recently awarded the Hired Grant. They are going to expand and build a new HVAC facility. Welding will also be moving to this facility,” Fox said.

“I’m proud of the success of our Automotive, Welding, and HVAC programs. With the $2.75 million HIRED Grant, we’re expanding with a new facility – a big win for our students, faculty, and workforce training at ATU-Ozark,” said Dr. Tina Smith, vice chancellor of Academic Affairs and Workforce Advancement.

Students graduating from the HVAC program often find job placements as a commercial, residential, or industrial HVAC technician, or a specialized repair technician. The salaries for such jobs average $50,010, according to ATU-Ozark.

Students graduating from the automotive service technology program find job opportunities with auto dealerships, as a heavy equipment technician, parts store worker, and a performance shop technician. Annual pay in those jobs average $47,900.

Students graduating from the welding program find jobs as fabricators, iron workers, and in other welding technician fields. Such job salaries range between $44,060 and $48,979 to begin.

“Employers often contact our program chairs to ask for recent graduates that are looking for work. Because of the high demand job field, students that seek out job opportunities get hired. This is a big reason why students are attracted to these programs. As I mentioned previously, several students are offered internships that grow into full time positions,” said Fox.