Sheet Metal Worker at North Florida Sheet Metal Workers JATC
at North Florida Sheet Metal Workers JATC in Jacksonville, FL
About This Program
North Florida Sheet Metal Workers JATC sponsors a union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship based in Jacksonville, FL. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program, it is supported by both union labor and employer partners, offering apprentices a well-structured, paid path into one of Florida's most in-demand skilled trades.
The program lasts five years and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on real commercial and industrial projects throughout the Jacksonville region, developing skills in ductwork fabrication and installation, welding, HVAC system layout, and architectural sheet metal. Technical instruction covers blueprint reading, energy codes, safety standards, and advanced fabrication methods.
Completing this program leads to journey-level status and the benefits of union membership, including negotiated wages, health and retirement benefits, and access to ongoing training. Jacksonville's growing construction sector offers strong long-term prospects for journeyman sheet metal 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.
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 Florida
Sheet Metal Workers in Florida are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Construction Industry Licensing Board.
View full Floridalicensing requirements →Reviews
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