HVAC Technician at Ironbridge Heating and Air

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Ironbridge Heating and Air in N. Chesterfield, VA

About This Program

Ironbridge Heating and Air, an employer-based sponsor in N. Chesterfield, VA, offers a registered non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship. Apprentices are compensated from the start, learning the trade while working alongside seasoned professionals on real residential and commercial jobs.

The apprenticeship lasts four years and requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training supported by 576 hours of related technical instruction. During this time, apprentices learn to install, service, and troubleshoot HVAC systems including furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and ventilation equipment. Technical instruction covers areas such as refrigeration principles, system controls, load calculations, and applicable codes.

Upon completion, apprentices achieve journey-level HVAC technician status. Ironbridge Heating and Air's hands-on approach prepares graduates to work confidently and independently in the field, serving the growing demand for qualified HVAC professionals in the greater Richmond, Virginia area.

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 →

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