Embarking on a career in the HVAC trade in Salinas, CA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to gain practical skills while earning a wage. Apprenticeships in this field generally last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under licensed professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 2,680 HVAC professionals in the region, with an average weekly wage of $1,027. Salinas, CA, projects a 6% job growth for HVAC technicians from 2022 to 2032. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring HVAC technicians in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $57,300 annually for experienced professionals.
