HVAC Technician at Vertex Refrigeration

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Vertex Refrigeration in Mansfield, TX

About This Program

Vertex Refrigeration offers a registered HVAC Technician Apprenticeship in Mansfield, Texas. This non-union program provides structured, paid training for individuals entering the HVAC and refrigeration trade, with an emphasis on developing well-rounded technicians capable of working across a range of systems and environments.

The apprenticeship spans four years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training paired with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience in installing, servicing, and repairing HVAC and refrigeration systems, working under experienced mentors on real-world jobs. Technical coursework addresses refrigeration cycles, electrical theory and controls, EPA refrigerant certification requirements, system diagnostics, and workplace safety.

Graduates earn journey-level credentials as HVAC technicians upon completing the program. Vertex Refrigeration's specialization gives apprentices meaningful exposure to commercial refrigeration alongside traditional HVAC work, broadening their skill set and career options. Mansfield and the broader DFW metroplex offer a highly active market for qualified HVAC and refrigeration professionals.

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 Texas

HVAC Technicians in Texas are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation – Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Program.

View full Texaslicensing requirements →

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