HVAC Technician at Inland Refrigeration JATC
at Inland Refrigeration JATC in Colton, CA
About This Program
The Inland Refrigeration JATC sponsors this union HVAC Technician apprenticeship in Colton, CA. As a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee program, this opportunity combines the backing of organized labor with structured, employer-based training — a combination that offers apprentices strong workplace protections and a clear path to journeyman status.
The four-year program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices earn wages from day one while gaining hands-on experience installing and servicing heating, cooling, and refrigeration equipment. Technical coursework covers refrigeration principles, electrical systems, equipment controls, safety regulations, and applicable codes — preparing apprentices for the full range of HVAC work in the Inland Empire region.
Graduates of this union apprenticeship earn journeyman HVAC technician standing, which typically comes with negotiated wage scales and benefits through the union. This is a well-regarded path into one of the construction and service trades with consistent demand across California.
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.
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.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for HVAC Technician
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in California
HVAC Technicians in California are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by California Contractors State License Board.
View full Californialicensing requirements →Reviews
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