Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – HVAC Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – HVAC Apprenticeship
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – HVAC Apprenticeship (Statewide, WI)
Programs Offered
- HVAC Apprenticeship (5-Year Program)
- Hands-on Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Training
- Pathway to Journeyman HVAC Technician Certification
Program Overview
The HVAC Apprenticeship Program through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) trains individuals to install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in both residential and commercial environments. Apprentices receive a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job experience working under licensed HVAC professionals. Training focuses on diagnostics, electrical systems, refrigeration, soldering, and system maintenance.
This program is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and wish to pursue a stable, high-demand career in the HVAC and building systems industry.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices receive real-world experience through supervised field and classroom instruction, including:
- Installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems and components.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints, wiring diagrams, and system schematics.
- Soldering, brazing, and welding materials for duct and piping systems.
- Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical HVAC issues.
- Following safety regulations and industry best practices on every job site.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Completion qualifies apprentices for journeyman HVAC technician certification in Wisconsin.
- Training covers EPA Section 608 certification requirements for refrigerant handling.
- Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in HVAC design, energy systems, or project management.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- HVAC Apprentice: Earn wages while completing hands-on training and coursework.
- Journeyman HVAC Technician: Eligible for full trade pay and expanded career opportunities upon program completion.
- Advanced Roles: Opportunities to move into supervision, project management, or specialized system design roles.
Program Length
- 5-year apprenticeship program.
- Includes both classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of the online apprenticeship application.
- High school diploma, GED, or verified equivalent (transcript or documentation required).
- Copy of driver’s license or reliable transportation plan.
- Minimum test scores required:
- Next Generation Accuplacer Reading: 239, Arithmetic: 250, QAS: 216, or
- ACT Reading: 15, Math: 16
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journey-level wage that increases each year—45% in the first year, 50% in the second year, 60% in the third year, 70% in the fourth year, and 75% in the fifth year. The average skilled wage rate for HVAC technicians in Wisconsin is approximately $32.61 per hour, plus benefits such as healthcare and retirement contributions.
Cost & Financial Support
The apprenticeship is tuition-free. Training is provided through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin and partner technical colleges. Apprentices earn wages while learning, with no tuition costs.
Location
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
School Locations:
Blackhawk Technical College (BTC) – Janesville
Gateway Technical College (GTC) – Kenosha
Madison Area Technical College (MATC) – Madison
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) – Green Bay
Training coordinated through ABC WI’s statewide apprenticeship network.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.