Benefits of apprenticeship in the HVAC field:

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) 

• This program is governed by the State of California and/or the Federal Standards and Program Rules and Regulations
• Length of the program is four years - 8,000 on-the-job training hours
• Classes will meet one night per week
• 4 hours per night for 18 weeks, 72 hours per semester,  144 hours per year
• Officially recognized training providers for North American Technician Excellence
• Program is overseen by the ABC So-Cal Merit Training Trust and the HVAC Unilateral Apprenticeship Commitee
• Applicants must meet eligibility requirements as outlined on the 'Apprenticeship' page

To view the curriculum for this program, click here.

Click here for an apprentice application.

HVAC Skills

Have you ever been hot and turned on the air conditioner, or cold and turned on the heater?  Thank an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technician for the ability to maintain your comfort level.  HVAC professionals install, maintain, and repair a building’s heating, cooling, and air circulation systems.  HVAC professionals actually perform several trades and tasks.  They do some electrical; carpentry; welding; piping; sheetmetal; and even some IT work.  In addition to heating and cooling, ventilation is a critical issue.  The air in our buildings must be kept clean and circulated.  HVAC systems can be installed both indoors and outdoors, depending on the structure.  This trade works with a variety of material and equipment: air conditioners, fans, compressors, motors, heat pumps, furnaces, etc. 

Doing prep work in the beginning of a construction project means cutting holes in walls, ceilings, and floors to install ductwork, pipes, and other parts of the mechanical system.  In later stages, you are working with the actual equipment and detailed, final connections.  HVAC professionals use a variety of hand tools, should have strong math skills, and be able to read blueprints and specifications accurately.  HVAC is challenging and satisfying work.  No day is ever the same.  It can be physically challenging, with lifting, climbing, carrying and balancing involved.  It is also mentally challenging, knowledge of local building codes, organizational skills, and the ability to visualize are all part of the job.

For more skill definition http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/49-9021.01

HVAC Career Facts

• Today, government and private studies confirm the shortage of skilled HVAC technicians nationwide.
• Nationwide, there were approximately 292,000 HVAC technicians in the 2006 census.
• Factoring in retirement, job changes, HVAC technicians entering construction management or business ownership, it is easy to see the growing need for skilled HVAC technicians.
• Future career path opportunities include jobs as estimator, distribution manager, inspector, project manager, trade instructor, foreman, and more…
• Construction is one of the few industries where an individual can still own his or her own business.

HVAC Quality of Life

HVAC technicians can build a financially rewarding future and experience an exciting career.

• Job satisfaction – It is rewarding to see your skills in a finished structure.
• Job security – High skills are in high demand.
• Low stress – Job requirements produce less mental stress.
• Physical exercise – Maintains a healthy body.
• Hours of employment – Usually weekends and evening are free for recreation.
• Unlimited earning power in an Unlimited construction career path.
• Trade skills can save you thousands of dollars building or remodeling a home.