Sheet Metal Worker at Ragan Sheet Metal
at Ragan Sheet Metal in Virginia Beach, VA
About This Program
Ragan Sheet Metal sponsors this registered sheet metal worker apprenticeship in Virginia Beach, VA. This non-union, employer-sponsored program provides structured trade training through direct employment with an established sheet metal contractor in the Hampton Roads area.
The program spans five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop practical skills in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC duct installation, roofing systems, and custom metalwork while working alongside experienced tradespeople. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, metal layout, welding, and job site safety. Apprentices earn a paycheck from their first day in the program.
Completing this apprenticeship prepares graduates for journey-level work as sheet metal workers in the construction and mechanical industries. Training directly with Ragan Sheet Metal gives apprentices valuable, employer-connected experience in the Virginia Beach market and positions them well for long-term trade employment.
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.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Sheet Metal Worker
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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