HVAC Technician at A-1 Refrigeration Sales and Service, Inc.

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at A-1 Refrigeration Sales and Service, Inc. in Kalamazoo, MI

About This Program

A-1 Refrigeration Sales and Service, Inc. sponsors this registered HVAC Technician apprenticeship in Kalamazoo, MI. This non-union, employer-sponsored program provides a paid training pathway for individuals entering the HVAC and commercial refrigeration trade in southwestern Michigan. Apprentices earn wages throughout the program, gaining practical field experience while working toward a nationally recognized credential.

The time-based program spans 4 years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work with A-1 Refrigeration's experienced team, developing skills in refrigeration system installation, maintenance, and repair alongside HVAC equipment servicing. Technical coursework covers refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, controls, equipment diagnostics, safety practices, and compliance with relevant codes and standards.

Graduates complete the program as journey-level HVAC technicians with strong expertise in refrigeration systems. This registered apprenticeship credential is recognized throughout the industry and positions completers for long-term, skilled employment in a trade with steady demand across commercial food service, industrial, and building climate control sectors in the Kalamazoo region and beyond.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$26

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

How to Apply

HVAC Technician Career Outlook

National Median

$25.95/hr

~$53,976/yr

Apprentice Start

$16/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

HVAC technician employment is projected to grow faster than average, driven by new construction, system replacements, and the transition to energy-efficient and environmentally friendly equipment. The push toward heat pumps and smart building systems is creating new specialization opportunities. Experienced technicians with strong troubleshooting skills are in high demand across all regions.

What to Expect as a HVAC Technician Apprentice

Duration

4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for HVAC Technician

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$16.00/hr
Journeyman wage$25.95/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Michigan

HVAC Technicians in Michigan are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs – Bureau of Construction Codes.

View full Michiganlicensing requirements →

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