Harmonized Refrigeration Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Program

The Harmonized Refrigeration Air Conditioning Mechanic apprenticeship program is designed to prepare students for a career in refrigeration and air conditioning. The program consists of three levels of technical training, 4680 work-based training hours, and writing the Interprovincial (Red Seal) examination for journeyperson-certification.

Program Overview

Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics are in high demand, and this program will prepare students to ensure comfort in homes, businesses, and industries, as well as support the global cold chain for food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and biological products.

Level 1 (6 weeks)

Level 1 consists of 180 hours of classroom and shop activities, covering topics such as:

• Safety practices
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Lock-out and tag-out procedures
• Use of tools and equipment
• Mathematics, science, drawings, and specifications
• Codes and standards
• Communication techniques
• Electrical and electronic skills
• Refrigeration and air conditioning theory
• System installations
• System maintenance

Level 2 (7 weeks)

Level 2 consists of 210 hours of classroom and shop activities, covering topics such as:

• Refrigeration code
• Air measurement tools
• Application of computers in trade
• Transformers, Modulating motors
• Single phase motors
• Three phase motors
• Heat transfer, insulation
• Multi-temp, centrifugal systems
• Food preservation
• Air conditioning fundamentals
• Refrigeration system components
• Introduction to gas theory

Level 3 (10 weeks)

Level 3 consists of 300 hours of classroom and shop activities, covering topics such as:

• Use of computers in the trade
• Codes and regulations for gas, electrical, and refrigeration
• Electronics, PLCs, proportional controls, and building automation
• ECM and VFD
• Refrigeration system components
• Variable refrigerant flow
• Psychometric calculations
• Use heat gain and loss calculations
• Contractual documents and quotes
• System selection, material take-off, and installation
• Service, troubleshooting, and maintenance
• Gas theory
• Gas appliances
• Gas system components
• Gas safety, distribution, and controls

Admission Information

Admission Requirements

• Successfully completed the previous apprenticeship level
• Registered as an apprentice with SkilledTradesBC
• Have an employer sponsor

Program Fees

Tuition and other mandatory student fees include supply fees, student activity fee, student services fee, and VIU Students' Union fee.

• Level 1: $859.08 (tuition: $719.28, additional fees: $139.80)
• Level 2: $1,002.26 (tuition: $839.16, additional fees: $163.10)
• Level 3: $1,463 (tuition: $1,230, additional fees: $233)
• Full program: $3,324.34 (tuition: $2,788.44, additional fees: $535.90) All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.

Financial Help for Apprentices

There are various forms of financial assistance available to help apprentices pay for their training, including WorkBC, Employment Insurance, Canada Apprentice Loans, and tax credits. Additionally, the Financial Aid & Awards office can direct students to grants, student loans, and other forms of financial aid. There are also many bursaries available for Trades programs.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.