HVAC Technician at Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. in Lyndhurst, VA

About This Program

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. sponsors a registered HVAC Technician Apprenticeship in Lyndhurst, VA. This non-union program offers paid, structured training for individuals interested in HVAC and commercial refrigeration systems in the Shenandoah Valley area.

The program is 4 years in duration, requiring apprentices to complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices are exposed to a range of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, working hands-on to develop skills in installation, service, and troubleshooting. Given the company's specialization in refrigeration, apprentices may receive in-depth exposure to industrial and commercial refrigeration equipment. Coursework covers refrigeration theory, electrical systems, EPA refrigerant regulations, system controls, and workplace safety.

Program completers earn journey-level HVAC technician credentials. Experience with advanced refrigeration systems can distinguish graduates in the job market, opening opportunities in food processing, cold storage, and commercial facilities management in addition to traditional HVAC career paths.

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 Virginia

HVAC Technicians in Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation – Board for Contractors.

View full Virginialicensing requirements →

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

See something wrong? Help us improve this page.