HVAC Technician at Industrial Refrigeration Corp
at Industrial Refrigeration Corp in Warwick, RI
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.
About This Program
Industrial Refrigeration Corp, located in Warwick, RI, sponsors this non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship with a strong emphasis on industrial and commercial refrigeration systems. Apprentices are paid from the beginning of training, gaining specialized technical experience in one of the more complex and in-demand segments of the HVAC/R field.
This four-year, time-based program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on industrial and commercial refrigeration systems, learning installation, maintenance, and repair of large-scale cooling equipment. Technical coursework covers refrigeration cycles, electrical systems, controls, pressure systems, EPA refrigerant regulations, and industrial safety practices.
Graduates earn journey-level qualifications as HVAC technicians with hands-on industrial refrigeration expertise. This specialization positions graduates for higher-complexity roles in food service, warehousing, manufacturing, and other industries that depend on commercial refrigeration infrastructure — expanding career options well beyond residential HVAC service.
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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