HVAC Technician at Carlson HVAC, Inc.

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Carlson HVAC, Inc. in Billerica, MA

About This Program

Carlson HVAC, Inc. sponsors this registered HVAC Technician apprenticeship in Billerica, MA. This non-union, employer-sponsored program is built to develop skilled HVAC professionals through a combination of real-world field work and structured technical education. Apprentices receive pay throughout the program, allowing them to earn income while building the expertise needed for a long-term career in the trade.

The time-based program runs for 4 years and is structured around 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside Carlson HVAC's experienced technicians, gaining hands-on exposure to heating and cooling system installation, service, and repair. Technical instruction covers refrigeration theory, electrical systems, controls and diagnostics, system design principles, and applicable safety codes and industry regulations.

Completing this program qualifies graduates for journey-level work as HVAC technicians. The registered apprenticeship credential demonstrates a high level of competency to employers and positions completers to pursue advancement opportunities in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC work throughout the greater Boston area 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.

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 Massachusetts

HVAC Technicians in Massachusetts are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Massachusetts Board of Sheet Metal Workers.

View full Massachusettslicensing requirements →

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