Sheet Metal Worker at JATC Richmond Sheetmetal Workers - Local 100
at JATC Richmond Sheetmetal Workers - Local 100 in Richmond, VA
About This Program
JATC Richmond Sheetmetal Workers – Local 100 sponsors this union sheet metal worker apprenticeship in Richmond, VA. Affiliated with Local 100, this JATC program trains apprentices under union standards in one of Virginia's most active construction markets.
The five-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on commercial and industrial jobsites throughout the Richmond area, gaining skills in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC ductwork, ventilation systems, and architectural metalwork. Classroom studies cover blueprint reading, applied math, welding fundamentals, and safety compliance. All apprentices are compensated throughout their training period.
Graduates earn journeyman sheet metal worker credentials and full union membership through Local 100. This provides access to competitive wages, health and retirement benefits, and a strong network of employment opportunities in Richmond and across Virginia.
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.
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.