Getting hired for an HVAC apprenticeship, Refrigeration & air conditioning apprenticeship, or “helper” position at an HVACR service company is an opportunity to build a rewarding and lucrative career as a service technician.
Here’s some advice to help you learn as much as possible, build your skills as an HVACR technician, and become a highly valued member of the team.
9 tips to help you make the most of your HVAC apprenticeship
1. Be a keen observer
Your most important job as an HVAC apprentice is to absorb information like a sponge. In fact, learning is going to be an important part of your career for decades to come, so now’s the time to get comfortable with it. Being a good learner starts with actively paying attention.
From the moment you arrive at work in the morning, take in everything that’s going on around you. Notice how more experienced technicians do things. Of course you’ll be interested in how they diagnose problems and perform repair tasks. But also observe how they stock the truck, talk to the customer, and use tools.
If you’re always paying attention, you’ll be ready for the moment when you’re asked to try a task on your own for the first time.
2. Ask questions
If you don’t understand something, or want more information, don’t keep your questions to yourself because you’re worried about revealing your lack of experience. Few HVAC apprentices or helpers start with any experience in the industry. Asking questions is the fastest way to gain the knowledge you need.
Besides building your understanding of theory and practical issues, asking questions demonstrates your curiosity and interest in learning. Plus, when a more experienced technician answers your questions, they gain confidence in your readiness to take on more responsibility.
3. Say yes
Make it your policy to be open, adaptable, and ready to take on whatever you’re asked to do. Whether it’s working with a different technician, being available for overtime, or picking up supplies, you learn important information from everything you do (especially when combined with the two tips above).
When you say yes whenever you can, you gain even more than knowledge. You demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to be a team player. These are qualities that employers value highly.
4. Follow instructions
While you want to be helpful, always make sure you’re following the instructions that you are given. You might think you’re helping by jumping in to do something extra, but that might backfire. Doing so might make you late, or otherwise interfere with your coworker’s plan for completing the job. It’s great to volunteer to do something, but be clear about what you are expected to do and what you are allowed to do.
5. Seek out training opportunities
Chances are, your employer will have you participate in classroom training in addition to your on-the-job training. However, you should always be on the lookout for other opportunities to get more industry training and experience.
For example, here in NYC we have a union training program for technicians. Employers can recommend a select number of new hires to participate. And, equipment manufacturers frequently sponsor training sessions at their facility to help techs learn about new products and technologies. Let your employer know that you’d like to participate in these opportunities.
6. Learn on your own
You’ll be learning a lot in your classes and on the job. But if you’re ambitious, plan to do even more learning on your own. Read, watch, and listen to content online to reinforce what you’re learning in your HVAC apprenticeship.
Why not start with these?
Best HVAC Podcasts for Service Technicians
Top HVAC Apps for Service Technicians
7. Keep up with industry news
Besides learning from experts online, it’s a great idea to keep up with the latest news about the HVAC & Refrigeration industry. That might include new heating and cooling technologies on the horizon, changes in legislation that impact the industry (such as refrigerant phase-outs), as well as new tools and suppliers.
We recommend ACHR News and Contracting Business as some of the top industry news sources to keep an eye on.
8. Work on your “soft skills”
It takes more than technical expertise to become a great HVAC service technician. In fact, the word service should give you a clue about what we mean here. Your job is not only to fix things, but to provide quality service to your customer. Doing that requires skills like active listening, empathy, and clear communication.
These are often referred to as “soft skills,” which should not give you the idea that they aren’t important. Often these types of skills make the difference between an average technician and a highly valuable one who customers ask for and every employer wants to hire.
Here are a couple of articles to get you started:
What To Say to an Angry Customer
9. Make a commitment to safety
Your HVAC apprenticeship, and a career as a service tech, comes with some risks. You work with electricity and handle refrigerants that can be dangerous if you don’t follow protocols. You’re up on ladders and working with power tools. Your career in HVAC service won’t last long if you don’t take safety seriously.
Here’s an article with some safety basics. And some safety info that’s frequently overlooked: tips for safe driving.
Your employer will train you on important safety protocols, including use of PPE. Make sure you understand the rules and be vigilant about following them.
More resources to help you make the most of your HVAC apprenticeship
HVACR Career Connect NY is dedicated to promoting career development for HVAC and Refrigeration technicians. Check out our helpful articles and videos.
HVACR Career Connect NY was created to promote the exceptional quality-of-life benefits of a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service, and also to provide a clear path for getting started in the profession. In doing so, we serve as a resource for employers in the New York City metro area to find and hire smart and capable new technicians. We also serve as an educational resource to support business growth and to help service technicians succeed in their chosen profession.
Learn about technical careers in the HVAC & Refrigeration industry, how to get hired and tips to build your career.