--- title: The Ultimate Guide to Careers in Building Mechanical Trades - VHV Company description: Explore possible career paths in building mechanical trades, a stable and well-paying alternative to pursuing a typical college education. image: https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/bkgd_pillar_page_careers.jpg --- # The Ultimate Guide to Careers in Building Mechanical Trades Careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can offer individuals steady employment, competitive pay, and great benefits. Welcome to your resource and roadmap for a potential career in mechanical trades. ### Table of Contents - [How to Find a Career Path in Mechanical Trades (with Infographic)](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#how-to-find-a-career-path-in-mechanical-trades) - [Learning as an Apprentice](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#learn_as_an_apprentice) - [Earn as you Learn](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#earn_as_you_learn) - [How does an apprenticeship work?](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#how_does_an_apprenticeship_work) - [VHV's Current Apprenticeship Programs](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#vhvs-current-apprenticeship-program) - [After Apprenticeship](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#after-apprenticeship) - [Other VHV Training Programs](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#other-vhv-training-programs) - [Planning Your Future](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#planning-your-future) - [Plan, Coordinate, & Design](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#planning-your-future) - [Fabricate in the Shop](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#planning-your-future) - [In the Field](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#planning-your-future) #### Take the summary to-go ![VHV_CareerBrochure_Thumbnail](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/VHV_CareerBrochure_Thumbnail.jpg) [![Download the Pamphlet](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/c1d9e839-574e-4d6c-9080-012a90ebc6d8.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/c1d9e839-574e-4d6c-9080-012a90ebc6d8) ## How to Find a Career Path in Mechanical Trades Section content Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you.   [![Explore the career flowchart](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/25cdc0a0-892d-46be-8919-8f9561f144ff.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/25cdc0a0-892d-46be-8919-8f9561f144ff) ![inforgraphic apprenticeship path preview](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/inforgraphic%20apprenticeship%20path%20preview.png) - Tab Content CTA Content ## Learning a Trade as an Apprentice ![image_working_as_an_apprentice](https://info.vhv.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/image_working_as_an_apprentice.jpg?width=350&name=image_working_as_an_apprentice.jpg) No experience? No problem! You can start learning a mechanical trade as an apprentice. This involves: - Working full time as an employee during the day alongside experienced journeymen - Going to school two nights per week (September through May). Between on-the-job training and classes, apprentices become well-rounded and valued employees with incredible knowledge. Apprentices are also mentored by an experienced designated VHV journeyman who will assist you in the successful completion of [our apprenticeship program](https://www.vhv.com/training/#apprenticeships). Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - Tabs Content ![Training that pays off](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/image_pillar_training_that_pays_off.jpg) ### Training that pays off Start earning wages as an apprentice while enrolled in one of VHV's registered apprenticeship programs. [![Apply Now >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/77463c67-4f10-466b-83f5-505a9d5edcdb.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/77463c67-4f10-466b-83f5-505a9d5edcdb) ## Earn as You Learn Start earning wages as an apprentice while enrolled in one of the registered apprenticeship programs. Gain hands-on experience while working full time. Obtain additional knowledge by attending trade classes two nights per week. Apprentices are mentored by an experienced designated VHV journeyman to assist in the successful completion of the apprenticeship program. VHV has selected [NCCER as its platform for training](https://www.vhv.com/training/#nccer-accredited-program) and education for new and existing employees. We believe these programs will enhance employee performance, provide the skills necessary to work safely and present our employees with opportunities to advance their careers. Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - Tab Content ![Training that pays off](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/image_pillar_training_that_pays_off.jpg) ### Training that pays off Start earning wages as an apprentice and VHV employee while enrolled in one of VHV's registered apprenticeship programs. [![Apply Now >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/77463c67-4f10-466b-83f5-505a9d5edcdb.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/77463c67-4f10-466b-83f5-505a9d5edcdb) ## How does an apprenticeship work? Apprenticeships begin after an individual applies as a full-time employee. Apprenticeships typically take four years to complete or until the apprentice has completed all coursework and achieved the required on-the-job training hours. Sheet Metal, Pipefitting, and HVAC [apprenticeship programs](https://www.vhv.com/training#apprenticeships) follow the requirements for NCCER and their structured courses. Individuals earn national recognition for studies upon successful completion of an NCCER apprenticeship program. Learn more about [NCCER here](https://www.nccer.org/).  Plumbing apprenticeships are State Registered Apprenticeships in compliance with the [State of Vermont's program and requirements](https://labor.vermont.gov/workforce-development/job-training-education-and-apprenticeship/apprenticeship).  The best part? You’ll be earning a livable wage working full time, and eligible for our incredible benefits package. As you progress through the program you will be evaluated twice a year and based on your progression eligible for two wage adjustments per year. These programs are available to all VHV employees regardless of where you live. Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - Tab Content CTA Content ## Current Apprenticeship Programs Section content Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - [Sheet Metal](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#sheet-metal) - [Pipefitting](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#pipefitting) - [HVAC](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#hvac) - [Plumbing](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#plumbing) ![Sheet Metal](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/image_sheetmetal.jpg) ### Sheet Metal This four-year course prepares an apprentice with experience and knowledge in [sheet metal](https://www.vhv.com/services/hvac-mechanical/#sheetmetal-prefabrication) across a variety of topics and applications, including ductwork installation, architectural sheet metal, and more. This prepares students for a career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration ([HVAC/R](https://www.vhv.com/services/hvac-mechanical/)) and more. ### Pipefitting This four-year course provides pipefitting apprentices with experience and knowledge of the fundamentals of [pipefitting](https://www.vhv.com/services/plumbing/#prefabrication-piping). This prepares individuals to install or repair high and low pressure pipe systems for various applications, like the generation of electricity, manufacturing, or heating and cooling building systems. ### HVAC This four-year NCCER course provides apprentice candidates with the practical skills needed for service, repair and installation of [HVAC systems](https://www.vhv.com/services/hvac-mechanical/), as well as the theoretical comprehension of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. ### Plumbing The VHV plumbing program follows the Vermont Registered Apprenticeship program. The program requires apprentice candidates to achieve 8,000 hours of [on-the-job training](https://www.vhv.com/services/plumbing/) and 4 years of classroom study. CTA Content ## After the Apprenticeship Once you’ve completed your coursework as an apprentice as well as the necessary on-the-job training hours, you’re eligible to take the certification exam for your area of expertise. Pass the exam, and you will receive your certification and/or license in your trade as a journeyman. Learn more about [certification versus training here](https://www.nccer.org/get-involved/individuals-seeking-training/assessments-vs-training).  ##### Vermont and New Hampshire Plumbing Licensure After completing on-the-job requirements, candidates are eligible to take the State plumbing exam. Upon successfully passing the exam, a candidate will be issued a State Journeyman Plumbing License. Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - Tab Content ![Join VHV as a Full-Time Employee](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/image_pillar_join_vhv.jpg) ### Join VHV as a Full-Time Employee Further your career with additional training opportunities as you grow. Enjoy competitive pay, benefits, ESOP membership, and more. [![View Open Positions >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/ab585abf-2fdb-49df-b22d-8ee97b9975ec.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/ab585abf-2fdb-49df-b22d-8ee97b9975ec) ## Other VHV Training Programs Once you’re a certified journeyperson, you can elect to take additional courses that compliment your job and give you additional skills to move into new positions throughout your career. Currently, VHV Company provides the following [ongoing training programs](https://www.vhv.com/training/#ongoing-training): - FUNDAMENTALS OF CREW LEADERSHIP (NCCER Course) This 12-week course is for certified journeymen and experienced craft professionals who want to move from their work in the field to lead the crew. You’ll learn leadership skills specific to construction or fabrication sites. - PROJECT SUPERVISION (NCCER Course) Once you become an effective Crew Leader, you can advance your career to the next level as a Project Supervisor. This year-long course is geared towards experienced Crew Leaders. This course is for field and office personnel who want to increase their knowledge as it pertains to management of projects. - HYDRONIC SYSTEMS FUNDAMENTALS This course at VHV is intended to help journeymen and craft professionals to fully understand a hydronic heating system, from static pressure, to piping friction, centrifugal pumps, system configurations and more. Whether you’re a thinker, a doer, a designer, or a delegator, there could be a path for you. Successful careers in HVAC/R mechanical trades can mean stable, good paying, steady employment working alongside driven coworkers to create the structures that we rely on for business and development in our region. Full time employees will receive competitive wages, great benefits and a steady stream of training opportunities. Learn more about specific teams, roles, and job descriptions that match your interests. Below is a flowchart that can help you determine what path makes sense to you. [![Discover the Possiblities >](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/4b1ba543-8743-44b9-abf3-94d04b438763) ![fpo_flow_chart](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/fpo_flow_chart.jpg) - Tab Content CTA Content ### Additional Training for Licensing/Certification - Fundamentals of Natural Gas (Natural Gas License) American Gas Association Course (AGA) - Liquid Propane Gas (CETP Certification) National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) - Medical Gas Installer (ASSE 6010 Certification) American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) - NORA Oil Certification (Bronze, Silver & Gold Certification) The National Oil Heat Research Alliance (NORA) - EPA (Universal Certification) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ## Planning Your Future Based on what you know you like to do, or what aspects of a job or career interest you, there are many opportunities within the mechanical trades. Start exploring your options and select what piques your interest: ![Plan, Coordinate & Design](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/image_plan_coordinate_design.jpg) ### Plan, Coordinate & Design ![Plan, Coordinate & Design](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/image_plan_coordinate_design.jpg) ### Fabricate in The Shop ![Plan, Coordinate & Design](https://info.vhv.com/hubfs/Pillar%20Page/image_plan_coordinate_design.jpg) ### In the Field I want to: Plan, Coordinate, & Design Fabricate in the Shop In the Field Career options: Successful projects begin with this team of calculated planners on both [design/build](https://www.vhv.com/services/construction/#design-build) and [plan/spec](https://www.vhv.com/services/construction/#plan-spec) projects. Coordinate project costs and applications with the requirements or drawings from Owner's Project team. Create the drawings with specifications for timely fabrication and installation of building systems. - [Mech Eng / Designer](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#mechanical-engineer-designer) - [PM](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#project-manager) - [CAD Opr](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#cad-operator) - [BIM Designer](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#bim-designer) - [Mech Sys Ctrls Designer](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#mechanical-systems-controls-designer) ### Mechanical Engineer / Designer Perform detailed calculations and develop system designs complete with construction documentation. ### Project Manager Manage and/or give direction on projects like equipment purchasing, project scheduling, maintaining project cost and monthly payment requisitions. ### CAD Operator Perform a wide variety of CAD drafting functions related to HVAC / mechanical design-build and plans-specs work. ### BIM Designer Perform project coordination effort utilizing 3-D CAD software. Develop shop fabrication drawings and as-built documentation as necessary. ### Mechanical Systems Controls Designer Design controls systems for the building mechanical systems in accordance with the Engineer’s developed control sequence of operations. Fabricate and [create the systems](https://www.vhv.com/services/plumbing/#plumbing-design) as detailed in the project drawings. Work with raw materials, and prepare systems for field assembly, like sheet metal, piping assemblies, equipment skids, or control panels. - [Pipe Fab](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#pipe-fabrication) - [Sheet Metal Fab](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#sheet-metal-fabrication) - [Mech Sys Ctrls Fab](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#mechanical-systems-controls-fabrication) ### Pipe Fabrication Shop fabricate piping assemblies and equipment skids in preparation of installation by field personnel. ### Sheet Metal Fabrication Fabricate and assemble sheet metal ductwork, fittings & hoods from raw product material in preparation for installation by field personnel. ### Mechanical Systems Controls Fabrication Pre-assemble control cabinets and fit-up HVAC controls equipment prior to the delivery of equipment to the field. Assemble systems on-site with a construction crew. Install, [service and maintain](https://www.vhv.com/services/service-maintenance/) mechanical piping, plumbing, HVAC ductwork and refrigeration systems in commercial and industrial buildings. - [Plbg & Piping Mech](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#plumbing-piping-installation-mechanic) - [Sheet Metal Mech](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#hvac-sheet-metal-installation-mechanic) - [HVAC/R Srv Tech](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#hvac-r-service-technician) - [HVAC/R Ctrls Tech](https://info.vhv.com/my-career#hvac-r-controls-technician) ### Plumbing & Piping Installation Mechanic Renovate, repair or install plumbing / piping and related systems equipment in industrial and commercial applications, in accordance with industry standards. ### HVAC Sheet Metal Installation Mechanic Renovate, repair or install sheet metal ductwork, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning equipment and related systems in industrial and commercial applications, in accordance with industry standards. ### HVAC/R Service Technician Service and maintain heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration equipment and systems. ### HVAC/R Controls Technician Install and/or service the control systems and related components to operate heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment for commercial and industrial buildings. ## Find Your Path The options and opportunities before you are many, but choosing how to get started can be the hardest step. Let us help make it easier. [![Apply to Join VHV](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/dacac4fc-aad8-44fd-85f9-865bc188fae7.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/dacac4fc-aad8-44fd-85f9-865bc188fae7) X ** [![Download the pamphlet instead](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4376743/d527dc6c-c433-4f1a-9738-3ce442e7685f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4376743/d527dc6c-c433-4f1a-9738-3ce442e7685f)