Alberta - Looking to start HVAC/RACM
I'm in high school in Alberta. I'm interested in becoming a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic or residential HVACR technician.
I've applied to a few apprenticeships and am lucky to have a program at school that connects students to employers after teacher recommendations, school background/attendance checks, and all the other stuff employers are looking at since apparently there's a government incentive behind it.
I'm basically starting from a blank slate when it comes to HVAC. I'm willing to learn and work, but I don't want to show up thinking I know more than I actually do. I'm working on a workplace safety course that is required for any highschool student to work in Alberta and I do have experience working with hand and power tools. I'm decently built and am aware of the demands of the trade, but im confident in my ability to handle it.
I'd appreciate advice from people actually working in the trade, especially anyone who started young.
If anyone could let me know what an employer might expect from me as an apprentice, if there's anything I should come into the job knowing, what would want you to keep a young apprentice around, and if there's anything you'd wish you knew before starting in this trade it'd really mean a lot to me.
If you have to be blunt just say it; I'd rather figure out some of the "bad" parts of the trade from people that were in my position how ever many years ago now than find out myself later when it's going to be hard to back out.
Thank you.
(I cannot find the "stickied thread" if someone would point it out I would be happy to take this post down and move it there!)