Steps to Enter the Fridgie Trade
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration apprenticeships are amongst our most popular trade offerings, and an extremely lucrative career to pursue in a country as hot as Australia!
5 Steps to Becoming an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic
Whether you’re looking at working in commercial, domestic or construction environments, if you want a career that can almost guarantee permanent ongoing employment, then look no further.
But what can you take to increase your chances of landing an air conditioning and refrigeration apprenticeship? Read on to find out five easy steps to become a fridge apprentice.
1. Get interested in air conditioning and refrigeration – what is it?
Air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics will install, repair, service and assemble air conditioning and refrigeration systems in industrial, commercial and domestic settings. Air conditioning is found in nearly all modern buildings nowadays, ensuring no shortage of units to work on.
Fridgies need to be able to follow blueprints and specifications to install the units, and be comfortable with working in close quarters and to close precision. Fridgies should also be prepared to work extended hours to fix breakdowns and attend to emergency repairs. You’ll have to fill the systems with gas or fluid using vacuum pumps and fill with refrigerant in line with regulations and governing procedures. This means obtaining your Arctick licence as well as your trade certificate.
Learn more about Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic Apprenticeships.
2. Study the right subjects
There are no specific prerequisite study requirements for air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics, however they should have a strong understanding of mathematics. Employers will also look favourably upon students who’ve shown an interest in science and technical subjects, including computer sciences.
This is a very hands-on and physically demanding career path, so any manual subjects are a good aptitude indicator as well. You need to understand how things work and fit together, and be able to apply logic and problem-solving skills – very important when diagnosing a fault!
3. Obtain the right skills
There are a number of everyday skills you should work on developing if you hope to work as an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic. The most important of these would be interpersonal skills! When attending emergency call-outs you might encounter hot and bothered customers who just want their AC back fast. You should be calm and collected under pressure, not easily frustrated and also able to communicate clearly and concisely what the issue is.
Fridgies should also be experienced in working with hand power tools, and be interested in learning to read technical drawings and diagrams. Normal colour vision is also a requirement for this trade, and of course, working as part of a team as you’ll need to work with Electricians, Pipe Fitters, and other tradies on site.
4. Sign up for industry experience
As with any trade, we always encourage apprentice hopefuls to gain what experience they can in their preferred trade. This will help you get your feet wet, show you the basics and proves your commitment to the trade to prospective employers.
Undertaking a pre-apprenticeship course or completing a school-based qualification is a great way to get a head start while still completing your school studies!
5. Complete an apprenticeship
The majority of people working as an air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic have obtained either a Certificate III or IV, with very few working with no post-school qualifications. Finishing your apprenticeship provides the best employment opportunities and salary expectations within the shortest amount of time.
This is a large occupation with extremely good employment prospects and you want to make sure you have the best opportunity at landing that perfect job. Hit the pavement and knock on doors, applying directly with employers, or get in contact with your local GTO or AASN. Gaining an apprenticeship is all about persistence!
Keen on becoming an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Apprentice? Take a look at the MIGAS Jobs Board for current opportunities.