Sheet Metal Worker at Fargo/Grand Forks Sheet Metal JATC
at Fargo/Grand Forks Sheet Metal JATC in Bismarck, ND
About This Program
The Fargo/Grand Forks Sheet Metal JATC operates a union apprenticeship program administered out of Bismarck, North Dakota. This five-year JATC program offers structured, paid training for individuals pursuing a skilled trade career in the sheet metal industry across the region.
Apprentices complete 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Training encompasses HVAC ductwork fabrication and installation, architectural and industrial sheet metal, roofing components, welding, layout, and the operation of specialized trade equipment. Classroom instruction covers math, blueprint reading, and occupational safety standards.
Graduates earn journeyman sheet metal worker credentials, qualifying them for employment on commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects throughout North Dakota. The union JATC structure provides consistent training quality and connects graduates to a professional network that supports long-term career growth in the 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
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