About the Program
ABC NM HVAC-R Technician apprentices earn competitive wages and benefits while working on the job. Depending on the training period an apprentice’s wages are based on a percentage of the journeyperson rate for public works projects or a wage survey for non-public works jobs.
The ABC NM HVAC-R Apprenticeship Training Program encompasses a minimum of 576 hours of related instruction, and 8,000 hours of on‐the‐job training. Applicants, who can document prior experience, may be eligible to take a placement test and could potentially begin their apprenticeship training program at a higher-class year.
A normal workweek is 40 hours. However, due to the nature of this industry, hours may be more or less depending upon weather conditions, other trades, job delays or other unforeseen situations. Apprentices should be prepared to travel to job sites. Dependable transportation and a valid driver's license are required.
ABC NM apprentices attend school 2 nights a week, 2 semesters a year (Fall and Spring) for 4 years. Apprentices may also be required to attend scheduled Saturday classes throughout the year. In class, ABC NM instructors teach practical application and theory. In addition, demonstrations and “hands‐on” instruction are conducted on safe and proper methods.
After completing ABC NM’s apprenticeship program, graduates receive a certificate of completion from the State of New Mexico and the US Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship. More importantly, they will have the skills and credentials necessary to succeed in today’s competitive workforce.
Because of the length of the program, commitment to the classroom and on‐the‐job performance requirements, one should be passionate about and dedicated to their chosen trade. When making selection decisions, ABC NM looks for candidates who want to become career HVAC professionals.
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) developed the apprenticeship programs to help meet construction industry demands for skilled craftspeople. The ABC NM HVAC-R Technician Apprenticeship Program is accredited by the State of New Mexico, and the US Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship. ABC’s apprenticeship programs help contractors maintain a safe and skilled workforce. With competition as stiff as it is today, quality performance is critical in order to bring construction projects in on time and under budget.
Primary work: Perform and create, install, and repair heating and cooling, and ventilation systems. Works with construction of commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. HVACR identifies factors that affect heating and cooling loads, and will explain the process with load calculations and duct system sizing and installation. They troubleshoot steam systems, wiring terminations, all various heating/cooling systems, water treatment, air quality, and repair products.
Skills Acquired: HVAC Systems & Methods, Layout and Process, Plans and Specifications, Soldering, Brazing, Piping Practices, Fiberglass duct, Air Measurements, Alternating Current, IAQ surveying, Water testing procedures, Fume and Exhaust System Designs, Customer Relations, and Supervisory Skills.
Earning Potential: New Mexico $47,510 - $59,870, National $30,450 - $72,154