Register today to have our voice heard at one of the two designated virtual events:
A major surge in the popularity of residential heat pumps in the Atlantic region, driven in part by utility and government programs aimed at shifting energy use patterns, has exposed a skills gap between what the market needs and what the HVAC industry is currently able to deliver.
The current supply of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (currently the minimum regulatory requirement in three provinces) is insufficient to meet current and future market demand, and the scope of training for this longstanding trade in any case exceeds the competency requirements for the residential sector.
Responding to this need, HRAI-Atlantic Region is proposing that a new trade be established to serve the needs of the residential sector, both as a stand-alone trade but also as stepping stone to the full Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Trade. This two-step approach has been employed in other provinces (MB, ON) and is also being explored in BC. It is similar in principle to the two-level designation for gas technicians.
Establishing this trade designation will not only serve a specific need in the Atlantic region for skilled workers while protecting consumers; it will also create the potential for a “Red Seal” designation in the future, which will enhance labour mobility options, creating benefits for this region and the rest of Canada. Further, the new trade will not only create a “right-sized” training and apprenticeship program for the residential industry, but it will also create a new pool of prospective workers for the commercial HVACR industry.
None of this can happen, however, without the support of industry members in the region. Provincial apprenticeship agencies in the region are open to the concept but need to see buy-in from the industry.
HRAI is hosting roundtable discussions and wants to hear from HVAC contractors like you! Your opinion matters. Please show up and be heard.
Register today at one of the two designated virtual event sessions:
For more information, please contact Scott Papp, Manager Membership & Divisional Programs at spapp@hrai.ca