Sheet Metal Worker at New Orleans Sheetmetal JATC
at New Orleans Sheetmetal JATC in Baton Rouge, LA
About This Program
The New Orleans Sheetmetal JATC sponsors a union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship based in Baton Rouge, LA. This Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program extends the reach of New Orleans's skilled trades community into Louisiana's capital region, offering union-backed, paid training for apprentices entering the sheet metal industry.
Over five years, apprentices complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Field work covers sheet metal fabrication, commercial and industrial HVAC ductwork, roofing systems, and architectural metalwork. Classroom instruction addresses blueprint reading, applied geometry, welding, and safety regulations. Progressive wage increases are built into the program structure as apprentices gain experience and demonstrate competency.
Graduates earn journeyman status as Sheet Metal Workers and the benefits of union membership through the New Orleans Sheetmetal JATC — including negotiated wages, health coverage, and retirement contributions. This is a solid, long-term career pathway for individuals in Louisiana's greater Gulf Coast construction market.
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
Licensing in Louisiana
Sheet Metal Workers in Louisiana are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.
View full Louisianalicensing requirements →Reviews
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