How to Get Training to Work in Refrigeration Service

People who have a high school degree or a GED can train to become refrigeration technicians either by applying to a trade school or community college or by finding an apprentice position. In many areas, you can become a professional with very little expenditure. Although associate degrees can cost several tens of thousands of dollars, many courses are much cheaper, and they don't require multiple years of study.

Depending on where you live, you can even take an online refrigeration course, which is cheaper and more flexible. This is a good option for people who would prefer not to go into debt or those who would like to do their course while working. After you're qualified, you can keep studying to become a specialist and increase your income.

Complete Your High School Degree or GED

If you already know you might like to work in the refrigeration industry, you can start preparing during high school. Connect with experienced technicians and ask them whether you could accompany them on the job for a few days, either at weekends or during your summer break. That way, you can find out whether you'd enjoy this job.

Once you've made up your mind, you can take classes that will help you during your training program. These include physics, chemistry, and IT. Some schools also offer practical classes like plumbing or electronics, which could prepare you for the work you'll be doing later on.

Complete a Training Program 

There are several paths you can take, and not every state offers each one. Before you sign up for a training program, make sure the qualification you receive will be accepted in the area you'd like to work in. Many people start by completing a certificate program, which might take six months to a year. Others opt for an associate degree, which normally takes two years. A four-year college degree isn't necessary to become a refrigeration technician.

Learn from More Advanced Technicians 

In most areas, you'll have to spend some time learning from seasoned professionals before you can take your exam and become licensed. Depending on your area, the apprenticeship will take two to four years. During this time, you might be paid. You will learn how to deal with various refrigeration systems, how to diagnose and fix common problems, and how to install new systems.

Since this job is very similar to that of an HVAC technician, the two disciplines are sometimes combined. In addition to working on refrigeration systems, you might also be asked to install and fix air conditioners or heating systems. A broad education can be a great starting point, but you might want to narrow your focus and specialize later on.

What Skills Do I Need?

To be a successful technician, you have to have certain skills. In addition to understanding the mechanics behind refrigeration systems, you'll also have to be able to solve complex problems quickly and efficiently, use your initiative, and remain calm in stressful situations. Once you take on a more senior role, you'll need to understand the math behind the service you provide. You'll have to provide customers with quotes and deal with questions related to billing.

Because you'll be visiting people at their homes and businesses, you need good driving skills and a good sense of direction. Additionally, you should be able to deal with a wide variety of customers. In the early stages of your career, it's likely that you'll be working with many types of customers, both homeowners and business owners, and you need to have the people skills to interact with all of them.

Is Refrigeration a Good Industry to Work In? 

People who are looking for a stable industry that will continue to provide a lot of jobs over the next few decades should consider refrigeration. Individuals and businesses are becoming more and more reliant on technology, so existing systems will need to be upgraded and changed to fit customers' evolving needs. What's more, as the population grows and the climate becomes warmer in many areas, new refrigeration units will be needed.

According to some experts, this industry is expected to grow between 10-15% in the next ten years. What's more, technicians are needed all around the world, so you can move to a different state or country and easily find a similar job.

How Can I Find a Job? 

After becoming a qualified technician, you have two options. You can either seek employment at a firm offering services related to refrigeration and HVAC, or you can go freelance and start finding your own customers. If you're not sure what's right for you, you should try employment first. That way, you can keep gaining experience and building the skills you need without having to worry about running a business.

Once you're a more seasoned technician, starting your own company could be a good idea because it allows you to set your own hours and increase your income. If you market yourself well and provide an excellent service, it's likely that you'll never run out of customers. Over time, you can even employ others to help you, so you can scale your income.

To work in refrigeration service, you have to have a high school degree or GED. Then, you can go to a trade school or community college, or you can do an apprenticeship with an experienced technician. After you've completed your qualification, you can either take on a job, or you can start your own service company. Get in touch with us at ServiceBox to find out how we can facilitate communication with your customers, employees, and coworkers.

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