Sheet Metal Worker at Central Iowa Sheet Metal Workers JATC LU 45
at Central Iowa Sheet Metal Workers JATC LU 45 in Des Moines, IA
About This Program
The Central Iowa Sheet Metal Workers JATC Local Union 45 offers a union apprenticeship for Sheet Metal Workers in Des Moines, IA. Backed by a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, this program combines the advantages of union membership with a rigorous, paid five-year training curriculum.
Apprentices complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction throughout the program. On the job, they develop skills in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC ductwork installation, architectural metalwork, and roofing systems. Classroom instruction addresses blueprint reading, applied geometry, welding, and safety practices. Wages increase progressively as apprentices advance through each phase of the program.
Graduates earn journeyman status as Sheet Metal Workers and gain access to the full benefits of union membership — including negotiated wages, health benefits, and pension contributions. This is a strong career foundation for those seeking stability and advancement in Iowa's skilled trades.
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
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.