Sheet Metal Worker at Colorado Statewide Sheet Metal Workers JATC
at Colorado Statewide Sheet Metal Workers JATC in Denver, CO
About This Program
The Colorado Statewide Sheet Metal Workers JATC offers a union-affiliated Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship based in Denver, CO. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program, it is backed by the combined resources of union labor and employer partners, delivering one of the most comprehensive training pathways in the Colorado sheet metal trade.
The five-year program combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices rotate through real job sites learning sheet metal fabrication, HVAC duct installation, welding, and architectural metalwork. Technical instruction covers print reading, energy codes, safety regulations, and advanced fabrication methods.
Upon completion, apprentices earn journey-level status recognized statewide and gain the advantages of union membership, including established wages, benefits, and access to ongoing training. This program is well-suited for those looking to build a lasting career in Colorado's thriving construction industry.
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.