Embarking on a career in the HVAC trade in The Dalles, OR, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under licensed professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 27,918 HVAC professionals nationwide, with an average weekly wage of $969 in The Dalles, OR. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring HVAC technicians in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with promising earning potential—often exceeding $50,000 annually for experienced professionals.
