Tips to excel as an HVAC apprentice (on the job)

[@arkanoiddude]

Biggest problem I had with starting out in HVAC at 32 was the pay...I did a year of schooling, got my 608 cert, got hired at a place for $10 an hr, within a month I was building up massive debt. I quit out of necessity, had to go get a "temporary" job as a bag machine operator for $15 an hr to make ends meet until I hopefully found another HVAC gig that paid more. Tried sending my resume to numerous local HVAC places, got on the waiting list for the local union, even drove an hour north twice to interview with Ingersoll-Rand for a job as an apprentice chiller tech... if I ever heard back at all it was to tell me either that I wasn't experienced enough for the position, or they picked another candidate. I got pretty demoralized, until I just said fuck it and stopped looking for an HVAC job. About 5 years later, still at the bag machine place, making $24 an hour as the lead tech. I wanted to get into HVAC, I like the work, and to this day I help out my friends and family with certain AC and furnace problems, but in my experience the HVAC field doesn't make it easy for rookies, especially if you're in your 30s or older with a family to support.

[@johnblaze6269]

Yeah I want to start but they’re offering only 15$ an hour, I have 2 kids even without kids here in Orlando it would be hard to take care of yourself on so little, I wait tables and on good weeks I’m making 12-1500, 5-600 is a shitty slow week in my field

[@arkanoiddude]

@@johnblaze6269 It just didn't work out for me, the starting pay was way too low for someone in my situation. I did enjoy doing the work and hvac gives you a bit of plumbing, bit of electrical, bit of sheet metal, bit of mechanical, and a bit of construction so I learned a lot of good skills, I'm glad I did it but wish starting wages weren't so ridiculously low. I'm doing well now though making $35 an hour as an industrial tech so I guess it worked out in the end.

[@Wrk2fsh]

If you are new always offer to do the hard thing, wether its carrying the tool bag of a journeyman up 7 flights of stairs to the roof or mechanical room . Or carrying equipment. When I started I viewed my youth and strength as a tradable commodity with a journeymans wisdom. If you make their life easy they will begin to request you on big jobs and pour knowledge on you. You can out run many stale techs by doing this and gain knowledge and ability in 5 years that others took 10 years to learn or never climbed/achieved at all.

[@Wrk2fsh]

For example if you know the building and know you going to need to use an extension ladder to get to the roof dont wait on or make the journeyman grab the ladder ( hes already done so for 30 years) it's your turn !! Have it on the side of the building for him , before he ask or before he does it himself

[@TheOneshot78]

There is never a dumb question with no questions it can get you killed. A good mentor is willing to answer all questions. Invest in your tools and you will invest in your future.

[@ThomasBahamas]

It's funny because one of the first guys I worked under criticized me for all of these things. Called me "Spock" because I used big words & asked a lot of questions, told me to never ask questions while the "real" tech was working, and to never think about the job until you actually get to the job. As someone who still is new to the field, may I recommend that keeping proper physical fitness & gaining strength would be helpful? I was a skinny geek coming into the field & I was surprised how much of a light weight I was. Now I go to the gym every morning & it helps. BTW even with the gym I still show up 10-15 minutes early everyday. Good advice Greaves!

[@TySterling1]

"Be the Best at Bitch Work"....love it and you are right on about being on time....Army and the military taught us that and I'm Always EARLY.....keep em' coming...learn something every time...Thx

[@AKHVAC]

Ty Sterling Thanks Ty!

[@adamsmashups4839]

I heard that as "Be the best bitch at work".

[@robevans8629]

My first year in my apprenticeship, keep at it guys. The first guy I was with was this Portuguese guy who wouldn't let me touch anything and would tell me if I went anywhere else I couldn't make it, he was also a land lord and used me and the other helper to paint and mow his properties lawns at 10 bucks an hour btw now im at a much better company and getting great hands on opportunities and learning a shit ton.

[@alexc4524]

love the videos! I am making a big career change into HVAC at 32 years old. The videos on the channel have helped me a lot! Thanks so much

[@SenorFusion100]

How has the change been? What work where you in before

[@rgluna70]

Been In the field 16years seeing a rotating door of helpers ,installers. Not everyone's built for it ,I'm in texas, summer heat is brutal ,attic work is tough. Young kids want to go straight to tech work and skip installation. You gotta put in the sweat

[@johnd4348]

If your new to the field ,when it's slow and not much work , ride along with one of the season techs. Even if the company will not pay you for your time the knowledge you pick up will pay you back ten fold later and the other tech will like it that he gets some help and ask for YOU when he needs some help. That's what I did the first couple of years. I always stayed working even when others were told to go home for the day.

[@jonnyboy1411]

Good looking out John D

[@robertarnold6672]

The things I disliked the most from the young guys were: being late, on the cell phone constantly, being sick every Monday or Friday, standing around waiting to be told what to do, performing shoddy work, showing no real interest in learning, showing up to work stoned or reeking like a brewery & coming out on the job thinking they know more than the journeyman.

[@MIKE2111ful]

Dam that was literally me when i started lol i changed my ways thou

[@samuraimonkey5281]

Thanks for the tips.

[@jeffreyquinonez8964]

@@MIKE2111ful lol

[@3Point_virtuallyrendered]

Started my HVAC Job Readiness back in January and fell in love with the trade! Such a unique and in demand trade that I'm making this my career. It's a 3 months course and coming to an end and I've done/learned alot already. Such a condense course which we've touched what second yr aprrenctices are doin. Long story short, I put that course on my resume a couple days ago and guess What, I got a call and they wanted me to start asap! Reason I'm writing is because of what you mentioned about writing a proper resume which was spot on! I cannot thank you enough! And as for my cover letter, I put what I know, not bullshitting and even said to the point of giving me a chance and would grind from the bottom up. Sure enough, this company is taking me on!! I just want to say THANK YOU for the encouraging words and I cannot wait to get Started! Ps. 'Be the best at bitch work' !! Haha love it! Keep the videos going man! Subbed!!

[@AKHVAC]

Romes E thank you so much for that GREAT story! That is awesome to hear, thanks so much for watching and best of luck to you👍👍!!!

[@tylormosier891]

I have been a commercial hvac apprentice for a year and it has been great. I have a great manager and supervisors to help me succeed, I always ask questions and if there is something I can’t fix or I don’t have the knowledge, i am not afraid to call in and ask for a helping hand so I know the next time it happens I will know what to do. Bust your butt, get your epa and education, ask QUESTIONS and LEARN!!!

[@guitaristgary]

Great advice all round man. Love all your videos. Im 2 years and 3 months into my HVAC career and paid for my own licence after a year in the industry. Havent looked back!

[@AKHVAC]

Love to hear that Gaz, thanks so much for watching

[@mrlevhil]

How did you start? Did you go straight to school or apprentice at a company?

[@guitaristgary]

@@mrlevhil I got lucky and a relative got me into the industry as an apprentice!

[@mrlevhil]

@@guitaristgary thank you for your reply. Great content.

[@dolwhinhooks8059]

AK HVAC Great video, I think I've watched it 3-4 times already. I appreciate the motivation your giving us young guys in the field. I'm currently working for Philips Arena in Atlanta GA and I've been there a little over 3 years now. I've learned a lot through the lead tech and other techs as well but I still feel behind but I'm determined to put in work not only at the job but off the job. Thanks AK HVAC

[@AKHVAC]

Humbled to hear that, thanks for watching man👍👍!! Appreciate the support🍻

[@joeychitwood6004]

Great advice. Guys need to be early and plan ahead regarding lunch etc. Time is money. Good stuff!

[@AKHVAC]

Thanks for watching Joey Chitwood 👍👍!! Appreciate the support🍻

[@mastertech.81hvacr8]

Great tip, I'm always telling my apprentices "early is on time and on time is late" It freaks me out waiting on someone, even journeymen.

[@Skateforlifelad]

Starting as a helper in 2 weeks, after 90days if I work out I'll be an apprentice. Thank you for the advice.

[@JohnDoe-jt9oq]

How'd it go?

[@poppa861]

Im 35 years old, on Wednesday I start my hvac apprenticeship. Looking forward to learning more about the trade.

[@ve5618]

I had an apprentice with better tools than I had, he'd bring his bag onto the site and I'd coach him step by step through the call. He kept my van clean and organized. He learnt quick and was given his own van.

[@AKHVAC]

Where do you live if I may ask? Where I am refer work is very well paid, depending the type.

[@ve5618]

Nova Scotia Canada , You can put in the hours and make some money. the rate here is around 30.00 for guaranteed 40 hrs. at small private shop.Big International shops pay 40.00 but it's charge out time. things are a lot more expensive here though. Rent food gas

[@cartercao3028]

How long the helper shadow you until and got his own van?

[@mikeclark1756]

Gotta start bringing my lunch . Mcdonalds is like 10 bucks. Bro, spending over 100 bucks on Breakfast and lunch.

[@adamsmashups4839]

Don't want to be eating all that junk all the time anyway.

[@VoiD1x]

chicken rice snacks

[@ahfireexplorer]

Thanks for all of the advise. I start a apprenticeship in 2 weeks can't wait!

[@AKHVAC]

ahfireexplorer congratulations on your upcoming opportunity!

[@ahfireexplorer]

AKGreaves Thank you! What area do you serve in?

[@AKHVAC]

ahfireexplorer Lexington KY

[@ahfireexplorer]

AKGreaves That's the area I'll be serving in! 👍

[@ahfireexplorer]

Have any advise on good books to get for beginners?

[@conocepuertoplata5931]

Thanks. Great advise. Although some peolpe may not like you asking lots of why questions

[@morgannield5996]

Yesterday was the first day of my apprenticeship. I got into a little late, I'm 27, but I've been spending 2 years at a time at dead end jobs. I'm really excited for this new opportunity

[@YUPYUP5able]

How is it going?

[@practicing2002]

This is me now, how is it going?

[@therepublicHVAC]

My old mentor instilled all of that! Lots of crap work.... but loved it! Great tools last! Painters tape valor! Youngest licensed HVAC contractor in TEXAS when I took my exam! Now it's my turn to pass on to my helpers! Great video good air! What branch? Navy!

[@AKHVAC]

The Republic Marines. Got out in '08. That's awesome about you license at such a young age! Rock on man!

[@therepublicHVAC]

AK HVAC Thank you for your service!

[@hvacguy9319]

All this tips are petty good i did every single thing that you said and I got a 7 dollar raise in a period of 1 year.

[@AKHVAC]

Hey Israel Roldan, thank you for sharing this! 👍👍What a great story. And thanks for watching!!🍻

[@cartercao3028]

Working with the same company ?

[@imtyrone7993]

If your early your on time, if your on time your late, if your late don’t even bother showing up.

[@JohnDoe-jt9oq]

If you're always early, you're never late.

[@MegaMastiffman]

I showed up my first day with my lunch cooler and that’s it but I got rushed in and from there I bought the basics and then a tool a week is a good rule of thumb and birthdays Christmas bigger tools and most of all work not stand and watch or want to go home at 5 I’m liked because I’m willing to do anything any time 130 am no problem that’s rare but it happens great vid man thanks

[@muniznick]

Theres always somebody always getting in late and wanting to leave early.

[@AKHVAC]

muniznick ...and are usually the same ones complaining about low pay, etc.

[@NotOurRemedy]

AKA “I won’t work here long and I have lots of growing up to do.”

[@Dano3280]

Good word!! thanks for sharing knowledge

[@SoutheastHVAC]

Great video man! I just started hvac school. And I'm stoked to get into the shop for more hands on experience. If you got any other tips or anything, that'd be much appreciated! Keep making videos man

[@wernermechanical2067]

First thing they need to do is get a pair of those Nemesis.

[@DaltonPepple]

I went through a trade school. I was just asked by the company I apply to tried out for a day. How can I kill it on a prospective day? Show up on time. Ask questions.

[@StephenRardon]

Really enjoying your videos! Keep em coming!

[@AKHVAC]

Stephen Rardon means a lot Stephen! Appreciate the support!

[@stevegarrett6047]

It's not easy to get signed off as you are employed because conflict of interest. Great video!

[@noeggs70]

Every HVACR company I’ve ever worked for here in vegas has always told us to be at the shop at least 20 min before clock in time for meetings about what’s gonna happen what job needs to get done and so u can pack ur vans with whatever materials u need for that specific job. And stay 20 min after to clean out ur van at the shop as the have proper recycling bins for ur trash. Like the bosses say u get a van, u get a gas card, and a paid lunch time. The least u can do is those extra 40 min 5 days a week and ull always have a secure job. Jobs here pay very well compared to other states and the commissions, well let’s say people can’t complain. But the younger newly peeps to the trade don’t understand and want to bitch because of the unpaid time.

[@Jamz2k]

Hey thanks for your videos, as an upcoming technician I really appreciate the insiders that you provide. Just to clarify, did you mean epa license or journeyman license?

[@ohnoohyeah3205]

Changing trades at 43. It's never too late. Yolo.

[@eddiethompson9456]

hey man, im in the military now looking to get into hvac when i get out next year, have you ever thought of doing a video for transition military members?

[@AKHVAC]

Eddie Thompson I released a video 3 days ago going over it👍 (getting your first Hvac job)

[@stanleylords1578]

I learned to pack lunches and saved a lot and have got a lot more money /tools and I’m the guy that when they ask for attic work I’m the guy

[@alexanderboyd2280]

6:53 Nate, Mechanical Contractor, Or EPA??

[@josecruz1203]

Your awesome keep making these videos is a blessing

[@AKHVAC]

jose cruz that means a lot. Thanks for watching!

[@adamedwards2435]

It all depends who your trainer is. If he doesn't like you you're screwed.

[@jjyotajj1826]

Started watching your videos and loved the content, I'm gonna start in the field in a few months with zero experience, any advice on training? I don't really have time to go to school because of big family responsibilities (3 kids) but since I started watching your videos makes a lot of sense when you talked about coming home to read about what you worked on that day, do you think that's enough?

[@LEGE7VD]

not sure if I want persue a career in professional firefighting or hvac, I have my associates in Gen. Ed. and my dad owns his own home remodel company.. what is the "regular work week for hvac techs?

[@BB-no9gr]

There is no real " regular schedule" in hvac field. Summer time i work 12 - 14 hour days, Winter time 10 -12 hour days, spring and fall are my more normal hours 8-10. I dont do residential work, and im sure the hours differ for different regions and depending on what you work on. Also, most companies you will have an on call schedule to provide 24 hr service ( almost all companies offer 24 hr service these days). hoped this info helped!

[@josephatkinson3636]

I have an interview Friday I'm so looking forward

[@AKHVAC]

Awesome man how'd it go?

[@josephatkinson3636]

AK HVAC Great I got the job I'll actually be starting off as a mechanical helper orientation is July 25th what basic tools should I buy?

[@johnd4348]

Be to work one hour early everyday until you prove yourself. Before long everyone will want you to help them and you will always be working even when it's slow. I brought my lunch for the first 20 years. Now I eat out more often because it helps me to slow down a little. Otherwise I'm really burned out by the end of the day.

[@WeirdoInDaKut]

What license is he talking about?

[@mrlatnemis1849]

When you say get your licence do you mean your HVAC contractor licence? What licence are you talking about? Sorry I'm new to hvac.

[@HIMDUNCAN404]

Zeke Montgomery I went to school for hvac in south Florida and our teacher didn’t really teach heat because we were in south Florida. It was a lot of bookwork over hands on. I moved to Georgia and I’m intimidated to try to get a job in the field because I don’t feel like I’m knowledgeable enough to meet the requirements. I’m also a combat veteran do you have any advice for me to go about approaching employers for a position?

[@cefimssoas9830]

Thanking you for speaking geniunely

[@AKHVAC]

Thanks for watching Cefims Soas 👍👍!! Appreciate the support🍻

[@joshuawaters8563]

Great video. How do you get your HVAC license in the state of N.C.?

[@lilliboyd5265]

Hey y'all! I was wondering if any of you could answer this question; I'm going to Job Corps to earn my HVAC certifications and stuff this fall. After I learn everything do I have to start out as an apprentice? Or would I just jump right in? Thanks!

[@Lroyal89]

I start my apprenticeship in 2 weeks pretty nervous because I have zero experience and that I'm a woman. will it be harder for me to excel because I am a woman in a "boys club"

[@selfdaringmike4169]

kiki Royal how long is your apprenticeship

[@blackishpariah]

Give us updates

[@skylerdavis589]

Not at all, one of the senior hvac techs i learn the most from is from a woman.

[@pharaohel6873]

I have 2 options pay for a 3 month course for 7k and I’m certified here in nevada or join the 5 year apprenticeship what do u guys recommend

[@omarbojorquez7826]

Literally what im in between right now. in Vegas BTW finding an apprenticeship seems hard right now.

[@richardwieder885]

@@omarbojorquez7826 thanks for the heads up. It sounds like I'm better off getting training here in Virginia before I think of working in Nevada.

[@1davidwright419]

SOLID VIDEO 💯

[@AlmightyHurricane]

What license?

[@Betoven81]

Nice vid! Hey man, you think 37 is too old to start getting into this field?

[@AKHVAC]

nahhhhh man! Get in!

[@richardwieder885]

I'm putting thought into learning this trade. I'm currently in commercial roofing and sheet metal.

[@mikeclark1756]

Ak , what do think about N.A.T.E. Is it worth taking

[@Quentyn73]

Fired because you're late??? You sure about it, pertaining to HVAC industry midseason?

[@mattlong6359]

great vid thanks man !!!

[@cpaul57]

Does anybody like the Joe Crisara sales tactics or nexstar sales tactics?

[@arthouston7361]

These tips are a good start for the young guys. They have been hampered by how they were catered to since about 1990, with trophies for participation, and too much tech without enough critical thinking. Take these tips and add to them. You guys have your past working against you.

[@arkanoiddude]

Think you might be going a little early with the "trophy for participation" thing. I was born in the early 80s, grew up in the 90s and there were no trophies for participation back then. That's a fairly recent thing, maybe in the last 15 yrs.

[@martin0paz]

I am going to start the HVAC program at my local college. It will take me about 1 year to finish. It will be a total of about 8 classes. Can I start fixing HVAC units after I take the first two classes, or do I have to wait until I finish all 8 classes to start making money?

[@Precocktrigger]

Lol what about if the lincense guy leave you by yourself

[@jeromebullard6123]

Bring lots of water to drink every day.

[@smuvloki]

Drivers license?

[@adamsmashups4839]

duck butter?

[@neilcomparetto5282]

👍🏻💪🏻

[@AKHVAC]

Neil Comparetto thanks homie! You kicked ass on the vacuum video, 1700 something views already! Great video!

[@neilcomparetto5282]

Thanks Andrew! I got a little help from Mr. Orr... Keep speaking the TRUTH!!

[@AKHVAC]

Love his podcast. Your doing something right if he gave your video a shout out. Rock on man!

[@acprakash5339]

hai

[@josephdiggs3237]

Lol Grunt work. is bull shit and you know it. but I understand what you mean

[@AKHVAC]

Joseph Diggs haha no doubt man.

[@josephdiggs3237]

AKGreaves lol

[@5MinuteDelay]

What’s a good interview attire for apprentice

[@johndoe-xt1mt]

I'd wear a nice collared shirt , clean pair of khakis and work boots. Similar to what you would wear as a service tech

[@ABCDEFGHIJKLMOPQRSTUVWXYZ12345]

hell yea man, this will definitely come in handy 👌 greatly appreciated!

[@AKHVAC]

Thanks for watching El Mallito 👍👍!! Appreciate the support🍻