Sheet Metal Worker at Arizona Sheet Metal JATC, Local 359
at Arizona Sheet Metal JATC, Local 359 in Phoenix, AZ
About This Program
Arizona Sheet Metal JATC, Local 359 sponsors this registered Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship program in Phoenix, AZ. As a union JATC program, it is jointly governed by the local union and signatory employers, ensuring apprentices receive rigorous, standardized training with real career outcomes. Apprentices earn wages from the first day on the job and advance through progressive pay steps as their skills and experience develop.
This 5-year apprenticeship incorporates 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn sheet metal fabrication, HVAC ductwork installation, roofing, welding, and architectural metal applications while working alongside journeymen in the field. Classroom training covers blueprint reading, trade mathematics, mechanical systems, metal properties, and occupational safety.
Upon completion, graduates hold journey-level status with Local 359, a valuable credential within Arizona's active construction industry. Phoenix's expanding commercial and industrial sectors create steady demand for skilled sheet metal workers, making this apprenticeship a strong investment in a long-term trade career.
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.
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
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