HVAC Technician at AIR TECH MECH. SYS. LLC dba STAR REFRIGERATION (HCC)
at AIR TECH MECH. SYS. LLC dba STAR REFRIGERATION (HCC) in Waterloo, IA
About This Program
Air Tech Mechanical Systems, LLC, operating as Star Refrigeration and affiliated with HCC, sponsors a registered HVAC Technician apprenticeship in Waterloo, IA. This non-union program is ideal for individuals interested in both HVAC and commercial refrigeration systems, offering paid training in a specialized mechanical services environment.
The four-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work hands-on with refrigeration and HVAC equipment, gaining experience in system installation, troubleshooting, and repair across commercial and industrial applications. Technical instruction covers refrigerant types and handling, compressor systems, electrical controls, heat transfer principles, and regulatory compliance.
Graduates complete the program as skilled technicians with a strong background in both HVAC and refrigeration — a combination that broadens job opportunities significantly. Star Refrigeration's commercial focus gives apprentices exposure to larger, more complex systems, preparing them for advanced roles in the mechanical trades in Waterloo and throughout northeast Iowa.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$26
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
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
Trade School
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