Best HVAC Schools in Rhode Island

If you want to work in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R), Rhode Island is a good place to start. The state has strong demand for skilled technicians and a clear licensing process. The first step is training - and picking the right school is critical.

This guide walks you through the training options, the basic licensing steps in Rhode Island, and schools that have programs built for HVAC careers.

Understanding the HVAC career path in Rhode Island

Residential and commercial buildings need climate control systems installed, repaired, and maintained all year. HVAC technicians handle that work, from installing furnaces to fixing refrigerated display cases.

In Rhode Island, most technicians begin as apprentices. That means getting classroom training and hands-on experience under a licensed professional.

Rhode Island law requires HVAC/R apprentices to register with the Department of Labor and Training (DLT) and work under a licensed contractor.

To complete your licensing path, you’ll need both schooling and supervised work hours.

Steps to become an HVAC technician in Rhode Island

Here’s the general order for starting your career:

  1. Complete HVAC classroom training Choose an accredited trade school or community college program.

  2. Register as an HVAC apprentice This is done through the Rhode Island DLT.

  3. Log required work hours Track hours for the license type you want (for example, Refrigeration or Pipefitter).

  4. Pass the licensing exam The exam covers safety, code, and trade skills.

  5. Keep certifications up to date Many technicians also hold EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling 1.

Best HVAC schools in Rhode Island

Based on training quality, accreditation, and industry connections, these schools are worth considering:

#1

New England Institute of Technology

East Greenwich, RI In-state option

Located in East Greenwich, RI New England Institute of Technology is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
  • One New England Tech Boulevard East Greenwich, RI 02818-1205
  • (401) 739-5000

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Community College of Rhode Island

Warwick, RI In-state option

Located in Warwick, RI Community College of Rhode Island is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Computer Programming, Computer Support Specialist, and Criminal Justice.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

HVAC program comparison

School/ProgramLengthType of TrainingNotable Features
NEIT9 months - 2 yearsCertificate / Associate DegreeCommercial & residential HVAC, labs
Providence CTA4 years (high school)CTE ProgramSafety, refrigeration basics
CCRIVariesContinuing EducationFlexible schedules, apprentice links
Davies Tech HS4 years (high school)CTE ProgramHands-on technical foundation

Rhode Island licensing notes

Rhode Island HVAC licensing falls under the Pipefitters and Refrigeration Contractors categories. Exact requirements depend on your chosen license. You should confirm details directly with the Rhode Island DLT before applying.

Tip: As an apprentice, your hours must be documented and signed by your supervising license holder.

Some licenses require up to 10,000 hours of work experience plus classroom training. Others require less if you focus on limited scopes.

Certifications that give you an edge

In addition to state licensing, employers often prefer or require certain national certifications:

  • EPA Section 608 Certification Federal requirement for handling refrigerants 1
  • NATE Certification Nationally recognized, validates technical knowledge 2
  • OSHA 10 or 30-hour card Shows you understand jobsite safety 3

These can often be earned during your school training or shortly after.

How to choose the right HVAC school in RI

Look at more than tuition. Important factors include:

  • Accreditation Ensures. Employers and the state recognize the program
  • career services rate Shows the school’s industry connections
  • Apprenticeship pathways Can shorten your time to a license
  • Hands-on equipment The closer to real-world systems, the better
  • Class schedule Flexible options help if you’re working

Contact each school’s admissions department for the most current course catalog and start dates. Ask if they assist with the apprentice registration process in Rhode Island.

Final Advice

If you’re ready to start an HVAC career in Rhode Island, pick a program that meets state requirements and fits your timeline. Register as an apprentice as soon as possible, and log your hours carefully. Combine school training with real work experience and you’ll be in a strong position to get licensed and build a steady career.

  1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Section 608 Technician Certification: https://www.epa.gov/section608 ↩︎ ↩︎

  2. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) - https://www.nate.org ↩︎

  3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration - https://www.osha.gov ↩︎