HVAC Technician at AAA REFRIGERATION, LLC. dba DOVEL REFRIGERATION

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at AAA REFRIGERATION, LLC. dba DOVEL REFRIGERATION in Red Oak, IA

About This Program

AAA Refrigeration, LLC, operating as Dovel Refrigeration and located in Red Oak, IA, sponsors a registered HVAC Technician apprenticeship for individuals pursuing a career in HVAC and refrigeration systems. This non-union, employer-sponsored program includes paid training throughout the full apprenticeship period.

The apprenticeship spans four years, with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work directly with refrigeration and HVAC systems, developing skills in installation, maintenance, and repair under the guidance of experienced technicians. Technical coursework addresses refrigerant types and safe handling, compressor operation, electrical controls, cooling system design, and applicable safety and EPA regulations.

Graduates complete the program as skilled HVAC technicians with a strong foundation in refrigeration systems. Dovel Refrigeration's specialty focus gives apprentices valuable experience with commercial and industrial refrigeration equipment, enhancing their marketability. Red Oak and the surrounding southwest Iowa area provide a stable base for a long-term career in the mechanical trades.

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.

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

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

See something wrong? Help us improve this page.