HVAC Mechanics & Installers vs Millwrights

Both HVAC mechanics and millwrights offer solid blue-collar careers with strong earning potential. HVAC mechanics earn a median $59,810 annually, focusing on heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems in residential and commercial settings. Millwrights command slightly higher pay at $65,170, specializing in installing and moving heavy industrial machinery. Growth projections are nearly identical—5.7% for HVAC versus 5.4% for millwrights over the next decade. HVAC requires 3-5 years of training including EPA certification, while millwrights complete a 4-year apprenticeship. Both trades demand strong mechanical skills and offer excellent job security in essential industries.

Millwrights edge out HVAC mechanics by $5,360 annually—an 8.2% advantage. Entry-level HVAC techs start around $37,000, with experienced professionals reaching $77,000+. Millwrights typically start near $41,000, with veterans earning $85,000+. Both trades offer substantial overtime opportunities, especially during peak seasons or emergency calls. HVAC specialists in commercial refrigeration or green technology can command premium rates. Millwrights working in specialized industries like power generation or pharmaceuticals often see higher compensation. Geographic location significantly impacts both—industrial areas typically pay millwrights more, while growing metropolitan areas boost HVAC salaries.

HVAC mechanics split time between indoor and outdoor work, crawling through attics, basements, and rooftops. Expect varied schedules with emergency calls, especially during extreme weather. Physical demands include lifting 50+ pounds and working in cramped spaces. Millwrights primarily work in industrial settings—factories, power plants, construction sites. The work is heavily physical, moving machinery weighing thousands of pounds using cranes and rigging equipment. Safety risks are higher due to heavy equipment and industrial environments. Millwrights often travel between job sites and may work shutdowns requiring extended hours or temporary relocation.

HVAC offers diverse advancement paths: residential service, commercial systems, or specialized areas like clean rooms or green technology. Many transition to supervisory roles, start their own companies, or become building engineers. Business ownership is common and profitable. Millwrights can specialize in specific industries—power generation, paper mills, or manufacturing. Advancement includes crew leadership, project management, or machinery alignment specialist roles. Some become plant maintenance supervisors or industrial consultants. Both trades offer strong entrepreneurial opportunities, though HVAC has lower barriers to starting a business due to smaller equipment investments and broader customer base.

Both are recession-resistant careers with strong futures. Choose HVAC for entrepreneurial flexibility and customer variety. Choose millwright work for higher pay and large-scale industrial projects. Your preference for service work versus project installation should guide your decision.