Traits, skills and aptitudes
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics tend to be objective, methodical and innovative.
You need:
- mechanical aptitude and interest
- coordination and manual dexterity
- strength and stamina
- the ability to work with others and deal with customers
- the ability to drive a service truck to worksites.
You should enjoy variety, solving problems and working with little supervision.
Academic path
This program aligns with the first period of Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training’s (AIT) Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic curriculum.
Graduates are eligible to register as apprentices and challenge the first-period exam.
Once you pass the exam and complete the necessary training hours with an employer, you may register for SAIT’s Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic apprenticeship program beginning in period two.
Credential
Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll receive a SAIT Pre-Employment Refrigeration Pre-Employment Certificate.
Not open to international applicants
This program is not available to international applicants at this time.
Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Potential careers (NOC):
- Gas fitters (72302)
- Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics (72402)
- Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics (72420)
- Residential and commercial installers and servicers (73200)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- Math 30-1, Math 30-2 or Math 30-3, and
- English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
- Physics 20 or Chemistry 20.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.
Program outline
The Pre-Employment Refrigeration and Air Conditioning certificate requires 16.5 credits (six courses) to complete.
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Books and supplies
Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Steel toe or equivalent work boots
- Leatherwork gloves
- Safety glasses
- Ear/hearing protection (if you prefer non-disposable types. SAIT provides disposable hearing protection.)
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