HVAC Technician at National Refrigeration Inc

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at National Refrigeration Inc in Warwick, RI

About This Program

National Refrigeration Inc, based in Warwick, RI, offers a non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship that provides in-depth training in refrigeration and HVAC systems through direct employer sponsorship. Apprentices earn wages throughout the four-year program, working alongside skilled professionals while progressing toward journey-level certification.

This time-based program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop hands-on proficiency in commercial and residential refrigeration and HVAC equipment, covering installation, preventive maintenance, and system repair. Technical coursework addresses refrigeration cycles, electrical theory, controls, refrigerant regulations, troubleshooting methods, and workplace safety standards.

Completing this apprenticeship qualifies graduates as journey-level HVAC technicians with a solid foundation in refrigeration. National Refrigeration Inc's established operations in Warwick provide apprentices with exposure to a wide variety of systems and clients, preparing them for long-term success in the HVAC/R trade throughout Rhode Island and the New England region.

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.

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.

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 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 →

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