Become a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
Interested in heating and cooling systems?
A Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic installs and services refrigeration and air conditioning systems. They are employed by heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning installation contractors, various industrial settings, food wholesalers, engineering firms, and retail and service establishments.
- Mechanical aptitude
- Math skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Customer service
- Good hand-eye coordination
Watch Keegan as he shares what a typical day looks like, from installing and maintaining systems to troubleshooting issues in a range of environments.
Keegan also walks through how he got started, the different pathways into refrigeration and air conditioning in Nova Scotia, and the career opportunities available across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- Direct Entry
Start working with a certified journeyperson and begin your apprenticeship right away - no experience needed. Most apprentices spend about 80% of their time on the job and 20% in training. - Pre-Apprenticeship
Take a program at a college or training institution to build foundational skills before starting your apprenticeship. - Trade Experience
If you already have experience – whether in Canada or internationally – you may be able to challenge the trade qualifier exam and become certified.
- Work in residential, commercial, industrial and institutional settings
- Install and service HVAC/R (heating and cooling systems)
- Perform work at heights and in small spaces
- Work indoors and outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions
- Use hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment and recovery systems
- Follow safety procedures when working with electricity, refrigerants, gases and pressurized systems
*Profile data compiled by Labour, Skills and Immigration – AskLMI@novascotia.ca