For those who are fresh out of high school or others who have tried various jobs and are looking to change careers, pursuing a job as an HVAC technician may be the perfect solution.

HVAC, short for heating, ventilation and air condition, technicians are well paid, in demand, and do not need 4-year degrees. Here are the top 5 benefits of becoming an HVAC technician, so those interested can make a better-informed career decision.

#1 Solid Salary

HVAC technicians are among the best paid in the industry. In 2012, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS, marked that HVAC techs earned a median salary of $43,640 each year. While top level techs brought in close to $70,000 annually. Along with a solid base salary, HVAC technicians often are allowed overtime and flexible work schedules that allow for much higher income at the end of the day.

Summer months are the best times for HVAC techs to bring in extra cash as demand and urgency for fixing residential and commercial air conditioning units is always at a high. Individuals can choose to either work for a company with a solid salary and benefits, or go out and start their own private contracting business for added income.

#2 Current and Growing Demand

Demand for HVAC technicians is at an all-time high and expected to grow in the coming years. Industry experts expect there to be a 40% increase in average salaries as well as increased job opportunities across the nation. The BLS expects demand for HVAC technicians to grow by 21% by 2022 resulting in over 60,000 new jobs that must be filled in that same time period. HVAC positions are among the fastest growing of all industries in the United States.

Geographically speaking, HVAC techs are in demand across the nation with larger concentrations in the east and west coasts where city and population densities are higher. Midwest and central regions are also looking for skilled technicians, so those searching for positions will be able to move across the nation, but probably won't have to in order to find a job.

#3 No Degree Required

For those who aren't interested in pursuing a 4-year university degree, HVAC is a solid career option. Certification and training for HVAC technicians can be done in 2 years or less at a technical trade school. These degrees are cheaper, faster, and easier to achieve than longer 4-year college programs. While formal training is often preferred, many technicians can find reasonably priced certification programs which will allow them entry into the industry. On the job experience is also valuable and will help with promotion and growth.

#4 Career Advancement

HVAC techs have many options when it comes to career growth and advancement. Starting positions are typically at the service technician level. Advancement from there goes to field managers, then operations managers. Regional or distribution level managers are some of the top HVAC positions and enjoy benefits and salary levels respective of the position. Those interested in private contracting are able to start a business as soon as they have a certification.

#5 Not Stuck in a Cubicle

Individuals who prefer to work in the field, out of the office, and with their hands will find HVAC particularly interesting. HVAC technicians are rarely in the office. They spend their days on site at various building, both residential and commercial, working on HVAC units. It's not uncommon for an HVAC tech to visit a variety of homes, schools, banks, offices, and even factories in a single week.

For those who enjoy hard work, comfortable salaries, and a job that's always in demand, a career as an HVAC technician could be a solid career choice. The first step to getting into the HVAC industry would be completing a certification program. After formal training, individuals can look for company jobs or start their own private contracting business.