Sheet Metal Worker at Arizona Sheet Metal JATC (Tucson)
at Arizona Sheet Metal JATC (Tucson) in Phoenix, AZ
About This Program
Arizona Sheet Metal JATC (Tucson) sponsors this registered Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship program serving the Phoenix, AZ area. This is a union JATC program, meaning it is jointly administered by labor and management partners to deliver consistent, high-standard training for apprentices in the sheet metal trade. Apprentices are paid throughout the program and progress through scheduled wage increases tied to their advancement.
The 5-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop hands-on proficiency in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC duct system installation, roofing, architectural metalwork, and welding. Classroom coursework covers blueprint reading, trade math, mechanical system theory, safety regulations, and fabrication techniques.
Graduates complete the program as journey-level sheet metal workers with union standing, making them competitive candidates for employment across Arizona's thriving commercial and industrial construction market. This is a well-established credential recognized by union contractors throughout the state.
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
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