New Qualifications in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

NEW RAC ACI PROGRAMMES

We are pleased to announce the launch of new qualifications in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) and Air Conditioning Installation (ACI).

As a result of the NZQA-mandated five-yearly qualification review, we have updated our RAC apprenticeship programme and developed a new ACI certificate programme, both of which opened to new enrolments on 15 August 2022.

The updated level 4 New Zealand Apprenticeship in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Trade) remains a comprehensive 4-year apprenticeship programme designed to equip learners already in the Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC&R) industry with the knowledge and experience to independently install, maintain, service, and commission plant and equipment to industry standards.

The new level 4 New Zealand Certificate in Air Conditioning Installation is a 2-year certificate programme designed for people looking to improve their employment prospects who are already working in the HVAC&R industry, or for those in allied trades who wish to enter the industry. Graduates will be able to independently install air conditioning systems up to 50Kw nominal cooling, and work safely with synthetic refrigerants, including Hydrofluoro-olefins (HFOs), in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and industry best practice.

These new work-based programmes have been developed in collaboration with the HVAC&R industry, to provide skilled tradespeople working at industry standard. Both programmes have been developed with the future in mind, to ensure graduates are equipped with the skills needed to respond and adapt to continuing advancements in technology and environmental requirements.

As always, the qualifications are open to anyone employed in the industry.

Competenz would like to thank all the industry professionals who gave their time to progress these reviews. This includes employers, workers, operators, and assessors. Their involvement acting as subject matter experts in technical advisory groups has been crucial to ensuring these qualifications are fit for purpose and provide an accurate representation of what is needed in the sector.

All Competenz resources, learning support materials, and assessment guides have been updated to facilitate a seamless rollout, and ensure learners and employers get the most out of these refreshed qualifications.

Read the full article in the Industry Journal, September 2022 issue