Sheet Metal Worker at Alaska Southcentral / Southeastern Sheet Metal Workers JATC
at Alaska Southcentral / Southeastern Sheet Metal Workers JATC in Anchorage, AK
About This Program
The Alaska Southcentral / Southeastern Sheet Metal Workers JATC sponsors this registered Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship program based in Anchorage, AK. This is a union JATC program covering a broad geographic region of Alaska, providing apprentices with access to a robust network of union contractors and job sites. Apprentices earn wages throughout training and advance through progressive pay steps as their skills grow.
The program spans 5 years and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC duct installation, roofing, architectural metal work, and welding. Classroom coursework addresses blueprint reading, trade mathematics, material properties, safety regulations, and mechanical systems theory.
Graduates complete the program as journey-level Sheet Metal Workers with union standing, qualifying them for a wide range of commercial and industrial construction projects throughout Southcentral and Southeastern Alaska. The state's unique construction environment and strong union presence make this an especially valuable credential for long-term career success.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$26
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
640
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
How to Apply
Sheet Metal Worker Career Outlook
National Median
$26.33/hr
~$54,766.4/yr
Apprentice Start
$16/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Sheet metal worker employment is expected to grow steadily, driven by HVAC system demand in new construction and energy-efficiency retrofits. The transition to high-efficiency systems and commercial building upgrades creates ongoing need for skilled fabricators and installers. Workers with welding and CAD skills have the strongest prospects.
What to Expect as a Sheet Metal Worker Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
640 hours of related technical instruction (~128 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Sheet Metal Worker
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Alaska
Sheet Metal Workers in Alaska are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.
View full Alaskalicensing requirements →Reviews
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