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Hey guys.  I was wondering if you could give me some advice.  I recently graduated from a "full" college HVAC program, and unsurprisingly I've learned hardly anything on the practical side of things.  The refrigeration teacher was the only decent instructor we had, so I actually have a better understanding of how to install an ac system properly than I do of most gas-fired equipment.  The other teachers were a waste of time: either they didn't care, resented helping you or just joked around with the students.  It's embarrassing how little I was taught after a year and a half.

My question is: are there employers out there willing to train a "raw" employee?  I consider myself reasonably intelligent, and I am willing to work for a low wage (minimum or even under the table) just to gain critical experience.  What is the typical on-the-job training like in the field and what kind of learning curve is there?  I think I could definitely learn quickly if I were paired with someone knowledgeable, but if I were simply handed a truck and some tools right away I'd be pretty lost.  I think I am all right diagnosing/troubleshooting problems but it is the hardcore hands-on practical aspect I need to work on.

What do you think?

Good questions, I'm about in the same situation. I just need to complete my 2nd year, but you didn't mention if you have your G3 or G2 Technician License(s). I'm from Windsor (highest unemployment), and even with the licenses with no experience no ones is hiring right now. It is usually really slow this time of year. Keep in touch and let me know how it turns out for you. Hope someone will respond to all of your questions.
Good luck

Most companys will be hireing very soon, the best place to start is in installations as a helper, only requirement is G3 , check out kijiji or craigslist for free job adds, expect a starting wage of 12to$15 an hour. You will learn the most in this area.

There are some companies that are willing to train you!  I got my G2 about 4 years ago and was hired pretty much right away.... talking to other former classmates we were all started the same.  You can expect to be paid $12-$14 per hour and usually assist installing furnaces, or cleaning furnaces on your own.  I rode along with a guy for a few days, and then was given a van and sent on my own for cleanings... and when that slowed down, i was put on an install team.  Most companies know that you are new and allow for extra time on calls for you.  One thing i can guarantee, you will learn more in the first month on the job then in a year of school. 

Quote from: Lou on May 04, 2010, 11:28:31 AM
Good questions, I'm about in the same situation. I just need to complete my 2nd year, but you didn't mention if you have your G3 or G2 Technician License(s). I'm from Windsor (highest unemployment), and even with the licenses with no experience no ones is hiring right now. It is usually really slow this time of year. Keep in touch and let me know how it turns out for you. Hope someone will respond to all of your questions.
Good luck

Hey Lou.  I have a G3 and I am awaiting the results of my G2 exam which I completed last week.  I believe I should pass, but the pipe sizing diagram and questions they gave did not specify the kind of pipe (schedule 40 black, or copper) to be used.  I sized the system as if it were black and wrote a note explaining the problem, though I imagine the TSSA just runs them through the scanner and what happens, happens.

Quote from: big dogg
Most companys will be hireing very soon, the best place to start is in installations as a helper, only requirement is G3 , check out kijiji or craigslist for free job adds, expect a starting wage of 12to$15 an hour. You will learn the most in this area.

Thanks, those are some good ideas!  I never would have thought about posting my own resume on there.  Obviously I'll have to remove my personal info, but besides that it can't hurt.

Quote from: scottnet2There are some companies that are willing to train you!  I got my G2 about 4 years ago and was hired pretty much right away.... talking to other former classmates we were all started the same.  You can expect to be paid $12-$14 per hour and usually assist installing furnaces, or cleaning furnaces on your own.  I rode along with a guy for a few days, and then was given a van and sent on my own for cleanings... and when that slowed down, i was put on an install team.  Most companies know that you are new and allow for extra time on calls for you.  One thing i can guarantee, you will learn more in the first month on the job then in a year of school. 

That's good to hear, and reassuring.  I have no doubt on the job experience is really the only way to learn thoroughly.

Thanks a lot, guys, I appreciate your input.