The Laney ECT lab is an ideal environment to get hands-on experience in state-of-the-art residential, light commercial and commercial HVAC systems.

Commercial HVAC Lab

The 8,000 square foot Environmental Control Technology (ECT) Lab holds a full size commercial hydronic system consisting of all major components, including boiler, chiller, heat exchangers, cooling tower, variable frequency drives (VFDs), variable air volume boxes (VAV), economizers, sensors, and controls. The hydronic lab was designed by Taylor Engineering, one of the leading engineering firms for energy efficiency in the country. The lab allows instructors to simulate a variety of real-life problem scenarios, to install temporary faults and bugs, and to have students solve complex problems as a team.

Multi-vendor Building Controls Lab

The latest devices on the market will operate in unison to support HVAC training equipment in the lab. The different systems will be fully integrated through an interoperable network, simulating the latest trend in building automation. Read more about the multi-vendor control systems lab.

At our multi-vendor Direct Digital Controls (DDC) test-bench lab students practice controls wiring, programming, and systems integration strategies.

Computer Lab, Classroom, & Workbenches

A 28-station computer lab is available to ECT students only, outfitted with instructional software, including LearnHVAC, Write Soft, Trane software, Simutec, (a refrigeration and HVAC simulation tool), and AutomatedLogic Web Control.

The facility also contains an array of workbenches and trainers, including refrigeration trainers, refrigerators and freezers for teaching commercial refrigeration troubleshooting, light commercial/residential HVAC trainers, Variable Air Volumes (VAV), and trainers for teaching compressor tear-down, brazing, soldering, and bending, basic motors and controls, ignition systems, and pneumatic and electromechanical controls.

An Environmental Control Technology (ECT) degree opens the door to a wide range of job opportunities in fields related to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and energy efficiency. Here are some of the key career paths you can pursue with this degree:

1. HVAC Technician

• Role: Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
• Opportunities: High demand in construction, facilities management, and service companies.

2. Energy Efficiency Specialist

• Role: Assess and improve energy use in buildings, design energy-saving strategies, and implement renewable energy solutions.
• Opportunities: Work for energy companies, government agencies, or sustainability consulting firms.

3. Refrigeration Technician

• Role: Specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigeration systems, including those used in commercial and industrial settings.
• Opportunities: Opportunities in grocery stores, food service, manufacturing, and cold storage facilities.

4. Building Automation Systems (BAS) Technician

• Role: Manage and optimize building automation systems that control HVAC, lighting, security, and other building functions.
• Opportunities: Work in large facilities like hospitals, universities, or commercial buildings.

5. HVAC System Designer

• Role: Design HVAC systems for new construction projects, ensuring they meet energy efficiency standards and building codes.
• Opportunities: Work with engineering firms, construction companies, or as an independent consultant.

6. Energy Auditor

• Role: Conduct energy audits of homes and businesses to identify energy waste and recommend improvements.
• Opportunities: Work for energy companies, government programs, or private consulting firms.

7. Environmental Control Engineer

• Role: Design systems and solutions to control environmental conditions in various settings, including clean rooms, laboratories, and industrial plants.
• Opportunities: Work in sectors like pharmaceuticals, electronics, or manufacturing.

8. Facilities Manager

• Role: Oversee the operation and maintenance of building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, ensuring they run efficiently and reliably.
• Opportunities: Opportunities in large corporations, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

9. Sustainability Coordinator

• Role: Develop and implement sustainability initiatives within organizations, focusing on reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
• Opportunities: Work in corporate settings, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.

10. Sales Engineer

• Role: Work with manufacturers or suppliers of HVAC and energy efficiency products, helping clients select the right systems for their needs.
• Opportunities: Opportunities in HVAC equipment manufacturing and supply companies.

11. Field Service Technician

• Role: Provide on-site maintenance and repair services for HVAC and environmental control systems.
• Opportunities: Opportunities with service companies, equipment manufacturers, or as an independent contractor.

These roles offer opportunities for growth and specialization, with the potential to advance into management or entrepreneurship as you gain experience and expertise in the field. An ECT degree equips you with the technical skills and knowledge needed to excel in these critical and rewarding careers.