Starting a career in refrigeration or HVAC can require schooling, training, and possibly a refrigeration apprenticeship. The apprenticeship can be included as a portion of the schooling or as a separate program. In order to get a refrigeration apprenticeship, a person should typically be enrolled or have completed refrigeration schooling, taken appropriate testing, and gone through an interview process. A complete a medical examination may be applicable as well.
Each company that hosts this type of apprenticeship program requires slightly different criteria be met in order to be accepted. It is important to research the different companies that are offering the apprenticeship programs to examine the requirements before applying. This ensures that the student is well prepared and more likely to succeed during the application process.
Many programs require that an applicant complete a minimum amount of schooling before applying to become a refrigeration apprentice. This is typically required to ensure that the student has a basic understanding of the refrigeration industry and refrigerator equipment. Each program has different requirements in terms of the schooling, if any, required, and how much. Some programs require that students complete a diploma program, while others require a minimum amount of course work in order to enter the program.
There is usually an interview process that is critical upon applying for a refrigeration apprenticeship program. This normally entails speaking in person with the head of the program to discuss the student's qualifications and experience as it relates to refrigeration. Oftentimes, enrollment in a school or training is all that is needed to apply for this type of program. In some cases, a student is required to attend schooling and complete a minimum number of credit hours while participating in the refrigeration apprenticeship. There is usually a time frame within which a student can complete his or her apprenticeship and credit hours.
The average length of time that a refrigeration apprenticeship lasts is approximately four years. During this time, the apprentice learns the refrigeration trade and potentially becomes able to be a licensed refrigeration specialist. Each region has its own specific licensing requirements, and the apprenticeships usually include these requirements in their programs. The main goal is normally for the apprentice to train so he or she can apply for a job within the same company. Upon completion, however, the apprentice may also choose to look for work elsewhere instead.
