Sheet Metal Worker at NE PA Sheet Metal Workers JATC LU44
at NE PA Sheet Metal Workers JATC LU44 in Wilkes-Barre, PA
About This Program
NE PA Sheet Metal Workers JATC LU44 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship for northeastern Pennsylvania. Operating through a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, the program pairs Local 44 union resources with contractor involvement to deliver structured, industry-recognized training to apprentices in the region.
The five-year apprenticeship requires completion of 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work in the field fabricating and installing ductwork, mechanical systems, and architectural sheet metal under journeyman supervision. Classroom coursework covers blueprint reading, pattern layout, welding, HVAC fundamentals, and OSHA safety standards.
Graduates earn journeyman Sheet Metal Worker status and are well-positioned for employment across the commercial and industrial construction projects that drive the northeastern Pennsylvania economy. Union affiliation through LU44 supports access to negotiated wages, health benefits, and retirement planning throughout a journeyman career.
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
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