The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) has taken a unique and intriguing approach to ensuring HVAC’s future success through its student chapters program.
In 2008, the state of Iowa passed statewide legislation requiring all HVAC technicians to be licensed. It’s a measure other states have taken, as well, with each state having unique criteria to determine the steps necessary to acquire such a license.
A skilled trades apprenticeship, specifically within HVAC, prepares up-and-coming technicians for a fulfilling career in a trade that doesn’t get the attention or publicity it so rightly deserves, as nearly everyone who goes through apprenticeship comes out a winner.
In addition to the actual contest, contestants have the opportunity to attend special educational seminars at CONNECT, complete with peer-to-peer networking, and gain exposure to the latest technologies and products.
Whatever the ratio between journeymen and apprentices might be, and however that ratio is determined, the one constant is the need for adequate training for all HVACR service personnel working on a job site.
he Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of New Jersey, with help from Association of New Jersey Apprenticeship Coordinators (ANJAC) and the U.S. Dept. of Labor, has received approval to run its Plumbing and HVACR eLearning course for apprentices.
As demand for HVAC professionals grows, many remain hopeful existing apprenticeship programs will be able to attract new recruits, and that new training models may entice the next generation to enter the HVAC industry.
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) Educational Foundation has announced its second annual HVAC Apprentice Contest, scheduled for Oct. 8-9 in New Orleans.