HVAC Technician at DeGeorge Plumbing & HVAC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at DeGeorge Plumbing & HVAC in Phoenix, AZ

About This Program

DeGeorge Plumbing & HVAC sponsors a registered HVAC Technician apprenticeship in Phoenix, Arizona. This non-union program operates within a multi-trade company environment, giving apprentices in the Valley of the Sun exposure to both plumbing and HVAC operations. Apprentices receive wages throughout the four-year program, making it an accessible and practical alternative to traditional trade school enrollment.

The apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on residential and commercial projects, gaining skills in HVAC system installation, maintenance, and repair. Working alongside plumbing professionals also provides broader exposure to building systems and mechanical work. Classroom instruction covers refrigeration principles, electrical controls, airflow design, EPA refrigerant requirements, and workplace safety.

Completing the program qualifies graduates as journey-level HVAC technicians. Phoenix's desert climate drives intense, year-round demand for heating and cooling services, and experience gained through a reputable multi-trade company like DeGeorge gives graduates a well-rounded foundation for advancement in the Arizona skilled trades market.

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 Arizona

HVAC Technicians in Arizona are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

View full Arizonalicensing requirements →

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