How to Become a Refrigeration Mechanic

In an age when lots of jobs are being shipped overseas, you can't go to China for someone to fix your air conditioner! These mechanics have job security.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Take classes in shop math, mechanical drawing, applied phsics, chemistry, blueprint reading, and computer applications in high school or college.
2. Get your high school diploma or equivalent.
3. Find an appenticeship program. Formal apprenticeship programs take 3-4 years to complete anc combine classroom with on-the-job training.
4. Pass three exams for certification to work with refrigerants: Type I-small appliances; Type II- high pressure refrigerants; Type III-low pressure refrigerants. Exams must be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and are administered by Trade Schools, Contractor Associations, or Building Groups.
5. Apply for jobs through Associated Builders and Contractors; Home Builders Institute; Mechanical Contractors of America; or apply with retail service centers, or independent business owners.

Tips & Warnings

• You can find an appenticeship program through the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, The National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors, The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada, The National Association of Home Builders, or associated builders and contractors organizations.
• The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society offers self study classes for individuals with limited experience.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
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