Sheet Metal Worker at Fairbanks Area Sheet Metal Workers JATC
at Fairbanks Area Sheet Metal Workers JATC in Fairbanks, AK
About This Program
The Fairbanks Area Sheet Metal Workers JATC sponsors this registered Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship program in Fairbanks, AK. This is a union JATC program, jointly administered by labor and management to ensure apprentices receive consistent, high-quality training. Apprentices are paid from the start and receive wage increases as they advance through each year of the program.
This comprehensive 5-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to fabricate, install, and maintain sheet metal components for HVAC systems, ductwork, roofing, and architectural applications. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, trade math, metal fabrication techniques, welding, safety standards, and mechanical system principles.
Upon completing the program, graduates achieve journey-level Sheet Metal Worker status within the union. This credential opens doors to employment across commercial, industrial, and residential construction sectors in Fairbanks and throughout Alaska — a region with active construction activity and strong demand for skilled trades workers.
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
Licensing in Alaska
Sheet Metal Workers in Alaska are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.
View full Alaskalicensing requirements →Reviews
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