HVAC Technician at Albemarle Heating and Air, Inc.
at Albemarle Heating and Air, Inc. in Charlottesville, VA
About This Program
Albemarle Heating and Air, Inc. sponsors a registered HVAC Technician Apprenticeship in Charlottesville, VA. This employer-sponsored, non-union program is designed to develop skilled HVAC professionals through a combination of hands-on field work and formal technical instruction, with apprentices earning a wage throughout the entire program.
Spanning 4 years, the apprenticeship requires completion of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside journeymen to install, service, and troubleshoot heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in residential and commercial applications. Technical coursework covers topics including refrigeration theory, electrical fundamentals, system diagnostics, ductwork design, and EPA and safety regulations.
Upon program completion, apprentices advance to journey-level status as certified HVAC technicians. Charlottesville's growing residential and commercial development creates steady demand for qualified trade professionals, and graduates are well-positioned for lasting careers in the HVAC industry.
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.
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
Trade School
Licensing in Virginia
HVAC Technicians in Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation – Board for Contractors.
View full Virginialicensing requirements →Reviews
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