Apprenticeship in the US After Attending HVAC Tech School

May 6, 2010
Katrina Dayrit

HVAC Tech School Training and Apprenticeship - beau-foto

Those hoping to pursue careers as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers should apply for apprenticeships and on-the-job training.

Upon completing the requirements of any HVAC tech school, aspiring heating, ventilation, and air conditioning workers often obtain on-the-job training through apprenticeship programs. In the United States, such apprenticeship programs are often sponsored by the following committees and organizations:

the Air-Conditioning Contractors of America
the Associated Builders and Contractors
the Mechanical Contractors Association of America
the National Association of Home Builders
the Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada
the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors – National Association
the Sheet Metal Workers' International Association
the United Association of Journeymen
the Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada

On-the-Job HVAC Tech School and Formal Apprenticeship Programs

Depending on the program, formal apprenticeships for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can last anywhere between three and five years. Throughout that training period, apprentices are paid but at the rate of about 50% of that received by experienced workers. Depending on where the apprenticeship is taken, that could be the minimum hourly wage as governed by the state to about US$12.00 per hour.

In formal programs, apprentices begin on-the-job training with observation of experienced tradesmen. They will be made to assist their mentors and perform simple work-related tasks such as carrying tools and other materials, insulating lines, or cleaning units and systems. Over time, they will be able to move on to more complex tasks including examining electrical and electronic circuits of systems as well as cutting, fitting, and soldering pipes. All such tasks will be done under the supervision of their mentors.

Often, formal apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with typical HVAC tech school classes. Among the topics covered in classroom instruction are:

Nature of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Work
Safety Practices
Proper Usage and Maintenance of Tools
Theory and Design of Typical Units and Systems
Commonly Used Products
Laws and Regulations Related to the Work

Requirements for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship Programs

Applicants for formal apprenticeships are often HVAC tech school graduates. However, even those who do not have any formal training can apply as the classroom instruction provided by such apprenticeship programs can substitute for formal classes provided by any HVAC tech school.

Typically, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning apprenticeship programs require applicants to hold at least a high school diploma or the the equivalent level of certificate from vocational schools. More important than formal education or training in any HVAC tech school is the applicant's skills in reading and math as well as the passion to pursue a career in the field.

Upon completing the requirements of such programs, apprentices move on to becoming skilled trades workers. Holding such a title means that they are already capable of working by themselves. It is also at such point when they can pursue certification to become licensed workers in the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

Reference:

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition. "Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers."