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Would you recommend starting with an HVAC trade school program, an apprenticeship, or an entry level job, and why?

Which option gives you the best hands-on experience and what are the pros and cons.

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Jim’s Answer

I can only speak from experience. I started off framing houses, then moved into commercial construction. I worked with concrete—both residential and structural. I tied rebar, set forms, and did a lot of carpentry work. After about five or six years of bouncing between different trades, I eventually landed a job as a maintenance technician. That’s where I picked up a lot of hands-on knowledge with mechanical systems and HVAC work.

I never went to a trade school or formal program. I just had the motivation to learn on my own. I paid attention, asked a lot of questions, and got my hands dirty. Over time, I gained real experience.

I believe the goal should always be to stop working for someone else and eventually build your own business. But to do that, you need years of hands-on experience, a deep understanding of the trade, and the discipline to be the best at what you do.

If you’ve got the time and money, trade school is a solid option. If you can get into an apprenticeship, that’s even better—it’s structured, you get paid, and you’re learning from seasoned pros. But apprenticeships also come with challenges—egos, politics, and having to navigate some tough personalities. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it if you can stick it out.

At the end of the day, it really comes down to your situation. If school is financially out of reach or you need to get working now, get an entry-level job. Start at the bottom, ask questions, and be the guy who’s always watching and learning. The right attitude and work ethic can take you further than a piece of paper ever will.

If HVAC interests you—if you enjoy figuring out how things work and you’ve got that mechanical mindset—then go for it. Just know that there’s more than one way in. Whether it’s trade school, apprenticeship, or just grinding it out on the job, pick the path that fits your life right now and give it everything you’ve got.

Hope this helps.
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Jim’s Answer

All of those avenues can lead to success. I guess it depends on your style of learning. Hands on experience would come from an entry level job and apprenticeship. Apprenticeship and school would likely offer more technical knowledge. For me, making a little money while training and learning the skills in the field work the best. If you find a company to work for who is willing to help you learn on the job, even really small companies need guys to work. And if you can be a good worker every day you can learn a lot and move upwards. But, there is come Certification involved, so don't forget that when considering schooling vs work. I believe you can learn everything you need to know from home if you are willing to do the work, and you can learn hands on through your day job. Just do what feels right to you in the end. I know guys who have done it every way, I just learn hand on and I was too broke to go to school. Sometimes I wish I did. But there is always a way if you work hard for it. Good luck!
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