There are several avenues to go down, and there is never a right or wrong, it is what fits you best. In teaching the trade - everyone learns at a different pace. What we found best is to take some classes at a tech school. She if you like it and learn at the same time. Once you decide, you will find that the more education you can get, the higher the pay. If you are content with residential work, then a 2 year collage will be about right. If you want to make real money, then you should serve the 5 year apprenticeship. The education is at a much higher level, you would have the best of the best in your training, pending on the company that outs you on. Then you can get some specialties, like PLC module programming, Cascade refrigeration, Rack refrigeration, DDC controls, Soft serve ice cream machines, Environmental cabinets, this list keeps going on and on. The odds of you getting into any of the ones I listed with out servicing an apprenticeship would be slim to none. Schools only can do so much, hands on with a Journeyman on your side is so important in the education. The trade is either a Steamfitter or Pipefitter.
Eggs