There is steady demand for refrigeration and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) specialists—in commercial, industrial and institutional settings. It is an apprenticeship trade, so you’ll find a clear path to a journeyperson’s ticket and excellent earning potential.
The job itself has a mechanical focus. You install, maintain and repair refrigeration and cooling systems. But it also involves problem-solving skills, basic math skills, the ability to read and interpret specifications, and the ability to work with power tools and sophisticated technology.
The one-year Refrigeration and Air Conditioning certificate program is offered in Saskatoon. Experienced instructors help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to install, operate and service commercial and industrial refrigeration and HVAC equipment. Your training includes:
You’ll spend as much time getting “hands-on” experience in the shop as you do in the classroom. You’ll also participate in a work experience.
Having a natural aptitude for mechanical and electrical equipment or systems is an asset; good problem-solving and customer service skills are a must.
With this Saskatchewan Polytechnic credential, you may be eligible for credit towards apprenticeship training. To learn more, contact the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC).
Our graduates are working in installation, service and sales. You could get a job with a refrigeration or air conditioning installation contractor, mine or mill site, manufacturing facility, food wholesaler, engineering firm, retail firm or service company.
| Sample Job Title | NOC Classification1 | Earning Potential2 |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic | Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (7313) | $41,600 - $110,300 |
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission.
ACCUPLACER©
The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.
Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.
Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.
See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.
2021/22 Academic Year
$7,905
Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.See links below to more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for the Arts and Sciences courses in this program. To discuss PLAR for other courses in this program, contact us at 1-866-467-4278 and ask for the Program Head of this program.
Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.
