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Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

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hvac


What You Will Learn:

This program is designed for students with little or no background in the heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry and provides the foundational skills needed to begin working as apprentices. Through an intensive blend of hands‑on shop training and theoretical classroom learning, students gain the knowledge required to install, service, and troubleshoot a wide range of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment. The curriculum prepares learners for careers as service technicians or installers by developing key abilities such as diagnosing, installing, and repairing residential and commercial systems using diagrams, meters, tools, and applied math and physics. Students also build practical competencies for real‑world job demands, including performing physical tasks like lifting equipment and working effectively in tight spaces.

What You Will Earn:

    • Skilled Trades BC
      • in-school technical training required for Level 1 Apprenticeship
      • work-based training hours towards Red Seal Certification
    • High School
      • grade 12 credits towards graduation

What You Can Expect:

SD83 pays for your tuition to attend full-time. Students/families pay for all ancillary fees, textbooks, and supplies. Students are responsible to arrange their own reliable transportation to and from campus.

Does This Sound Like You?

  • Mechanical aptitude: You understand how machines work and enjoy figuring out how different parts move, connect, and operate.
  • Agile & independent nature: You move comfortably in different work environments and feel confident working on your own when needed.
  • Critical thinking: You think things through carefully and make smart decisions based on the information you have.
  • Attention to detail: You notice small details and like making sure your work is neat, accurate, and precise.
  • Problem‑solving skills: You like tackling challenges and finding practical solutions when something isn’t working right.
  • Physical stamina: You can stay active and focused during physical tasks without tiring quickly.
  • Safety‑conscious: You follow safety rules, pay attention to your surroundings, and make sure everyone stays safe while working.

Help Yourself Succeed By...

  • Connecting with your Career Coordinator at school.
  • Watching for deadlines - they are critical!
  • Maintaining good attendance and keeping up with school work - career programs require interviews!
  • Considering a trade sampler program.
  • Enrolling in Work Experience at a related job site.
  • Participating in Career related activities like going on a tour (virtual or in person) or attending an info session.
  • Selecting shop and math based elective courses.
  • Making and monitoring an appropriate personal email. (ex: do not use phat_cat69@gmail.com)
  • Ensuring your personal information is up to date (i.e email, resume, SIN, etc).

VERNON CAMPUS

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Pre-Requisites:

  • At least 50% in English 10
  • At least 50% in any Math 10 (Apprentice & Workplace, Foundations, or Pre-Calculus)
  • Be on-track to graduate

What You Will EARN:

  • 6 grade 12 high school courses (24 credits)
  • work-based training hours towards Red Seal certification

Program Length:

  • 25-week (750 hours)

Dates & Deadlines:

  • Fall intake:
    • August - February
    • Apply in December of the previous year.
  • Winter intake:
    • January - July
    • Apply in February of the previous year.


https://www.okanagancollege.ca/programs/refrigeration-and-air-conditioning-mechanic