Sheet Metal Worker at Bismarck-Minot Sheet Metal JATC
at Bismarck-Minot Sheet Metal JATC in Bismarck, ND
About This Program
Bismarck-Minot Sheet Metal JATC sponsors a union apprenticeship program in Bismarck, North Dakota. This five-year registered program trains apprentices for skilled careers in the sheet metal trade across central and western North Dakota, with wages paid from the first day of training.
The program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience fabricating and installing HVAC ductwork, architectural metalwork, industrial sheet metal systems, and roofing components. Classroom study covers applied math, blueprint reading, welding techniques, and safety regulations.
Completing this JATC apprenticeship leads to journeyman sheet metal worker status, a credential supported by the union and recognized throughout the construction industry. The program positions graduates for sustained employment in a region with active commercial, agricultural, and energy-sector construction activity.
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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