The apprenticeship programs in refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic in Canada combine in-class studies and on-the-job training with employers, teaching students

  • Ins and outs of design of heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings
  • Assemble components and install systems in various settings
  • Install and calibrate related controls
  • Maintain heating and cooling systems
  • Test to detect errors in wiring or faults in the system
  • Troubleshoot the problem and repair traditional and modern heating systems

The apprenticeship programs in refrigeration mechanic course in Canada help student gain following competencies (knowledge, skill and abilities):

  • A thorough understanding of heating and cooling systems
  • Strong understanding of electrical fundamentals
  • Manual dexterity
  • Ability to apply maintenance procedures and service techniques
  • Hands-on experience in cutting, soldering, brazing and welding
  • Knowledge of material handling procedures
  • Ability to carry out load calculations and plan specifications
  • Understanding of air distribution systems
  • Ability to work in teams
  • Ability to deal with customers
  • Ability to understand engineering drawings and manufacturer's bulletins
  • Ability to review equipments
  • Ability to plan and prepare for installation

With this, students also learn to write in technical environment and gain customer service skills.

Apprenticeship Programs in Canada

There are a number of colleges in Canada offering a variety of apprenticeship programs or air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic courses. But all of them may not be affiliated. Centennial College's apprenticeship program in refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic is one of the prestigious programs in Toronto. Students are scheduled into their college sessions by Ministry of Training.

In addition, the program includes classroom learning, hands-on lab and on-the-job training with an employer. The program also gives students the opportunity to earn-while-you-learn. With this, they can also write the exam for a certificate of qualification. Passing this exam qualifies them for a certificate of apprenticeship from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The certificate reflects that the student is certified in chosen occupation.

Program Details

The three-year apprenticeship program in refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic is a traditional apprenticeship program with three levels: basic, intermediate and advanced. It covers a wide range of subjects including:

  • Refrigeration and air conditioning processes
  • Mechanical cooling cycle fundamentals
  • Cooling systems and fundamentals
  • Electrical fundamentals
  • Plans specifications and load calculations
  • System design and installation
  • Material handling procedures and practices
  • Electrical and control systems
  • Air cooling systems
  • Air distribution systems
  • Electronic devices and control systems

Program Benefits

The apprenticeship program offers a number of benefits to students. It

  • Helps them upgrade their knowledge and skills
  • Gives them opportunity to earn while they learn
  • Incorporates on-the-job training, which prepares them for the world of work
  • Conducts learning sessions at state-of-the-art facilities
  • Allows them to write the exam for certificate of qualification from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities

Admission Requirements

Apprentices do not apply directly to the college. Instead they register with the Ministry of Training. However, an apprentice must be sponsored by an employer. This is one of the essential criteria for applying for this program.