HVAC Technician at Pride Heating & Air Conditioning LLC
at Pride Heating & Air Conditioning LLC in Portsmouth, RI
About This Program
Pride Heating & Air Conditioning LLC, based in Portsmouth, RI, sponsors this non-union HVAC Technician apprenticeship for individuals who want to build a career in the heating and cooling trade. Apprentices are paid from day one, making this a practical option for those looking to learn a skilled trade without pausing their income.
The program runs four years and follows a time-based structure that combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Working under experienced technicians, apprentices learn to install, repair, and maintain residential and commercial HVAC systems including furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and duct systems. Technical coursework covers refrigeration principles, electrical systems, equipment controls, load calculations, and safety practices.
Graduates complete the apprenticeship as journey-level HVAC technicians ready to work independently. Pride Heating & Air Conditioning's established presence in the Portsmouth area gives apprentices a solid foundation and regional experience that supports long-term career advancement.
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 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 →Reviews
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