Who we are
Supporting California & Nevada’s Independent HVAC & Mechanical Contractors
Air Conditioning Trade Association (ACTA) is a non-profit, contractor member association. We serve free enterprise non-union HVAC, Mechanical, and Service Contractors, as well as their employees and the industrial suppliers that service them.
What We Do
ACTA specializes in training in the HVAC industry through its state- and federally-approved Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program, Service Technician Training, and other industry related training…for both contractor employees and individuals.
OCTOBER 1, 2026 · 9 A.M. PACIFIC · ONLINE
Compliance questions? Get answers.
Join ACTA and compliance expert Jennifer Kirkman for an interactive webinar covering apprentice ratios, pay rates, public works projects, training dues, eCPRs, and live Q&A.
FREE for ACTA Members!
Upcoming Classes & Certification Testing
Continuing education classes, EPA 608 testing dates, and NATE testing information in one quick view.
Continuing Education
Trade Math
A refresher course for Journeymen covering fractions, basic geometry, and essential math skills used in the trade. A great way to sharpen foundational skills, especially for those considering ACTA’s Accelerated Class in the future.
RegisterThe 3 Principles of Layout
A refresher course for Journeymen covering geometric basics and the three principles of layout: parallel line, radial line, and triangulation. Strengthen your layout fundamentals and prepare for more advanced training, including ACTA’s Accelerated Class.
RegisterRefrigeration – Part 1: How the System Works
A refresher course for Journeymen covering the fundamentals of the refrigeration system and how it works. Review the refrigeration cycle and how the major components work together, while refreshing skills that can help prepare you for ACTA’s Accelerated Class.
RegisterRefrigeration – Part 2: How the Equipment Works
A refresher course for Journeymen focusing on how refrigeration equipment and components work within the system. Review refrigeration lines and other key components while strengthening your knowledge for the field or future participation in ACTA’s Accelerated Class. Taking Refrigeration – Part 1 prior to this course is recommended to ensure a solid understanding of the refrigeration system fundamentals.
RegisterContinuing education class fees
Free for members who remit their journeyman training contributions to ACTA.
For all other participants: Deluxe Members $249 · Full Members $282 · Associate Members $332 · Non-Members $360.
Continuing education payments
Submit your class registration, then use this link if a continuing education fee applies. Classes are free for members who remit their journeyman training contributions to ACTA.
For journeyman continuing education classes only. This payment link does not apply to the compliance webinar, EPA 608 or NATE testing, or other ACTA programs.
Pay continuing education class feesUpcoming EPA 608 and NATE Testing Dates
EPA 608 In-Person Testing
In-person EPA Section 608 testing at ACTA's Manteca, California office.
RegisterNATE Certification Testing
ACTA is approved to proctor NATE certification exams. Testing is scheduled at ACTA's Manteca, California office.
RegisterEPA 608 Online Testing
Online EPA Section 608 testing. ACTA will confirm testing requirements after registration.
RegisterAbout ACTA
Over 50 years of promoting free enterprise Sheet Metal and HVAC Contractors
training
Industry-Leading HVAC Training Designed for Contractors & Technicians
ACTA’s State and Federally-approved HVAC Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program combines live online instruction with hands-on training to help contractors develop skilled, job-ready workers.
ACTA’s Accelerated Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program helps experienced workers meet California’s Skilled and Trained Workforce requirements. Available to Deluxe Member contractors, this fast-track program is designed for employees with 10+ years of trade experience who pass a challenge exam.
ACTA’s Math Prep Class is designed to help apprentice applicants build confidence in their basic math skills — an essential part of working in the trades. This course covers adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, fractions, and basic geometry. The class runs for three days (three hours each), followed by a final test on the fourth day.
ACTA’s HVAC/R Service Tech Training is a 2-year program designed to prepare students for a successful career as an HVAC/R Service Technician. Open to both beginners and experienced techs, the program covers electrical theory, refrigeration, residential and commercial service, and industrial chillers.
ACTA’s Customized Training Program offers affordable, flexible training designed specifically for your company’s needs. Contractors can choose from a variety of HVAC topics to create a custom training plan for their employees, with options for live online instruction, hands-on training, or both.
ACTA’s Continuing Education Program offers high-quality training for HVAC professionals looking to sharpen their skills and stay up to date with industry standards. With live online classes and hands-on training labs, ACTA provides the in-depth knowledge and practical experience needed to help technicians grow and succeed in their careers.
Support. Savings. Solutions for HVAC Contractors.
Get expert guidance, exclusive member discounts, and powerful compliance resources — all designed to help your business thrive. Explore ACTA’s services and see how membership works for you.
Get certified with EPA Section 608 and NATE exams to boost your HVAC career and meet industry standards.
ACTA’s Compliance Center helps contractors navigate public works laws, avoid costly fines, and stay project-ready.
ACTA’s Government Affairs team advocates for contractors, fights PLAs, and keeps you informed on critical legislative updates.
Gallagher’s Health Benefit Program offers affordable, customized health plans for members and apprentices.
ACTA provides HVAC-specific safety resources, including tailgate booklets and Injury Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) guidance.
ACTA members have access to exclusive savings and dedicated support from ADP for payroll, HR, hiring, onboarding, retirement, and workforce management solutions designed to help their businesses grow and succeed.
Through ACTA, member contractors have access to Gallagher’s industry-focused insurance solutions, safety resources, and expert guidance to help protect their businesses and employees.
Infinity Insurance is supporting ACTA’s future workforce by providing the first 20 students who enroll in the Math Prep Class with a 15% tuition discount, while also offering members access to trusted business and personal auto insurance solutions.
latest news
Stay up to date with industry news, compliance updates, training opportunities, and important announcements for HVAC contractors.
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