HVAC Technician at East Coast Plumbing Heating & Air

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at East Coast Plumbing Heating & Air in Laurel, DE

About This Program

East Coast Plumbing Heating & Air sponsors a registered HVAC Technician Apprenticeship in Laurel, DE. This non-union, employer-sponsored program offers a comprehensive paid training pathway for those looking to build a career in the HVAC trade in Delaware's Sussex County region.

Over 4 years, apprentices complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. The hands-on component covers the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment in residential and commercial settings. Technical instruction includes refrigeration fundamentals, electrical systems, system diagnostics, ductwork, and safety practices.

Completing this apprenticeship leads to journey-level HVAC technician status. The multi-trade environment at East Coast Plumbing Heating & Air also gives apprentices broad exposure to mechanical systems, which is a strong asset for long-term career growth.

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 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 →

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