Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Program Updates (2026)

On August 4, 2026, the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic (RACM) Apprenticeship Education Program (AEP) will be updated to create a combined AEP with Gasfitter - Class B. This means apprentices will receive a second Gasfitter - Class B journeyperson certificate when they complete a RACM apprenticeship.

See below to learn how this may affect you.

For Current Apprentices

There will be no changes to the number of periods of training, weeks of classroom instruction in each period, or number of on-the-jobs hours needed in each period, and you do not need to contact AIT regarding this change.

A bridging course will be available for all current apprentices to provide instruction on any missed Gasfitter content in periods you’ve already completed.

You will be eligible to take the Red Seal exam for either or both trades, if you choose, when you complete your RACM apprenticeship program.

For Current Trades Qualifier Candidates

Candidates in the Trades Qualifier work experience program will still need to complete 72 months and 9,360 hours of verifiable RACM experience. All Trades Qualifier candidates will receive only an RACM journeyperson certificate after completing their requirements.

If you wish to apply for Gasfitter – Class B certification after being certified in RACM, you must have your work experience supervised by a certified Gasfitter – Class A or B journeyperson, and the supervising journeyperson details must be included on the Employee Declaration Letter.

For Previously certified RACM Journeypersons

Two options are available for previously certified RACM journeypersons to receive a Gasfitter – Class B certificate.

Enroll in the Gasfitter – Class B Apprenticeship Education Program (AEP):
- RACM journeypersons will be able to enroll with advanced standing. They will then need to complete 12 months and 1,560 hours of on-the-job training and Period 2 classroom instruction and examination. The Gasfitter-Class B Interprovincial Exam is optional.
  - Some RACM certified individuals may be eligible to challenge the Period 2 exam without attending classroom instruction. Contact AIT if you need further information
- Enroll in the Gasfitter – Class B Trades Qualifier (TQ) Program:
  - Candidates need to provide 18 months and 2,340 hours of Gasfitter – Class B work experience, and employer contact information to verify experience and challenge the Gasfitter – Class B Red Seal exam. An Employer Declaration Letter is required, and work experience must be supervised by a certified Gasfitter – Class A or B journeyperson.