HVAC Technician at G K T Refrigeration
at G K T Refrigeration in East Providence, RI
About This Program
G K T Refrigeration, based in East Providence, RI, sponsors this non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship with a strong emphasis on refrigeration alongside heating and cooling systems. Apprentices receive pay from day one of the program, learning professional skills while earning a steady income over four years of structured training.
The time-based program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction spread across four years. Apprentices work on refrigeration and HVAC equipment in commercial and residential settings, developing competencies in system installation, maintenance, and diagnostics. Technical coursework covers refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, EPA refrigerant handling regulations, equipment controls, and safety practices.
Graduates earn journey-level status as HVAC technicians upon program completion. With hands-on refrigeration experience gained through G K T Refrigeration in East Providence, graduates are well-prepared for employment in the HVAC/R industry throughout the greater Rhode Island area.
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 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 →Reviews
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