HVAC Technician at Los Angeles & Orange Counties Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration JATC
at Los Angeles & Orange Counties Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration JATC in San Dimas, CA
About This Program
The Los Angeles & Orange Counties Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration J.A.T.C. sponsors this HVAC Technician apprenticeship based in San Dimas, CA. This employer-sponsored, time-based program is open to individuals looking to build a career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration through paid, hands-on training.
The program runs for four years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under experienced technicians learning to install, maintain, and repair HVAC and refrigeration systems, including reading schematics, handling refrigerants, diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults, and ensuring systems meet safety and efficiency standards. Classroom instruction covers theory, codes, and technical fundamentals that reinforce daily field work.
Upon completing the program, graduates are qualified to work as journey-level HVAC technicians in residential, commercial, or industrial settings throughout Southern California. HVAC is a high-demand trade, and completing a registered apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for long-term career growth and earning potential.
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 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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