What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a program where workers can get on-the-job training while being paid and working in their desired field. Apprenticeships allow individuals to develop skills with real-life, hands-on experience over time (for HVAC, it’s 3 to 5 years). All apprentices work under a trained mentor who is highly qualified and has trade experience throughout their apprenticeships. In North Carolina alone, there are over 12,004 apprentices.
Qualifications and Duties of an HVAC Apprentice at Advance Mechanical
During an HVAC apprenticeship with Advance Mechanical, an apprentice will be trained to become an HVAC technician. They are paired with one of our highly skilled and trained technicians who will serve as their mentor and work with them for the next 3 to 5 years as they complete their apprenticeship. While training as a technician, they will learn how to properly work with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Before becoming an apprentice with Advance Mechanical, we make sure that our candidates have a passion for the trade, a commitment to working hard and have a genuine willingness to learn. A basic knowledge of mechanics, technology, math, and the ability to practice safe working habits are needed. Being an HVAC apprentice with Advance Mechanical isn’t always glamorous and the job can be physically demanding, but we are 100% committed to our customers and do what we can to best serve them.
While on the job, apprentices and their mentors will work through many projects. They include installing, repairing, and service heating and air conditioning systems, replacing refrigerants, cleaning ducts, working with air cleaning and air distribution systems, testing electrical circuits and wiring, working with ventilation systems, and using various tools and equipment. Our apprentices learn how to use appropriate HVAC software, read drawings and blueprints, and evaluate different HVAC problems. A mentor is always there to demonstrate how a task is done and assist when needed.
Why Become an Apprentice at Advance Mechanical?
Since 2009, there has been a 73% increase in apprenticeship programs. When it comes to being involved in an apprenticeship, Heating and Air Conditioning Installation is in the top 20 of all programs. HVAC apprenticeship programs tend to offer more career advancement opportunities. In 3 to 5 short years, an apprentice will gain knowledge in many different HVAC-related tasks through a customized experience. 16% of apprentices are straight out of high school and because all work done during an apprenticeship is paid and pertains to HVAC, they have a jump start on their career.
Advance Mechanical offers the best service in Greenville and the surrounding areas, which means an apprentice at Advance Mechanical will be working with a highly trained and skilled technician. Apprentices will get the hands-on experience needed to help achieve certifications such as the EPA 609, NATE Certification, OSHA Certification, and United Association STAR Certification.
If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Advance Mechanical team, give us a call today. We’re always looking for experienced technicians to join our team as well as candidates for apprenticeships. For more information on careers at Advance Mechanical, visit our Careers page.
