HVAC Technician at Big Wave HVAC
at Big Wave HVAC in Millsboro, DE
About This Program
Big Wave HVAC sponsors a registered HVAC Technician Apprenticeship in Millsboro, DE. This employer-sponsored, non-union program is designed for individuals ready to enter the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration trade through structured, paid on-the-job training. Apprentices begin earning wages from the start of the program.
The apprenticeship spans 4 years, incorporating 8,000 hours of hands-on field experience alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Working with skilled HVAC technicians, apprentices learn to install, service, and troubleshoot heating and cooling systems. Technical coursework covers refrigeration theory, electrical fundamentals, system diagnostics, EPA regulations, and safety standards.
Graduates of the program earn journey-level HVAC technician status, positioning them for long-term careers in a trade with consistent demand. Completers are equipped to work independently on a full range of residential and light commercial HVAC systems.
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
Licensing in Delaware
HVAC Technicians in Delaware are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – Board of Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, and Gas Fitting Examiners.
View full Delawarelicensing requirements →Reviews
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