HVAC Technician at Controls Heating & Air Inc

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Controls Heating & Air Inc in Cranston, RI

About This Program

Controls Heating & Air Inc, located in Cranston, RI, offers a non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship for individuals ready to develop expertise in HVAC systems and controls. Apprentices earn wages throughout the training period, gaining hands-on industry experience while working toward journey-level qualification.

This time-based program runs four years and consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on heating and air conditioning systems in the field, with a particular focus on system controls and automation in addition to standard HVAC installation and service tasks. Technical coursework covers refrigeration principles, electrical systems, control systems, load calculations, diagnostics, and safety regulations.

Completing this apprenticeship qualifies graduates to work as journey-level HVAC technicians with a strong understanding of system controls — a skill increasingly valued in modern commercial and residential HVAC applications. Controls Heating & Air Inc's technical focus prepares graduates for both service and controls-oriented roles.

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.

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

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 Rhode Island

HVAC Technicians in Rhode Island are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Building, Design and Fire Professionals.

View full Rhode Islandlicensing requirements →

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