Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Jac Of Rochester Lu #46
at Sheet Metal Jac Of Rochester Lu #46 in Rochester, NY
About This Program
The Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship sponsored by Sheet Metal JAC of Rochester LU #46 is a union JATC program located in Rochester, NY. This Joint Apprenticeship Committee program is supported by both union and employer partners, ensuring apprentices receive consistent, industry-aligned training in the sheet metal trade.
Running five years in length, the program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on real job sites while learning to fabricate and install HVAC ductwork, sheet metal roofing, flashings, and architectural metal systems. Classroom instruction covers trade mathematics, blueprint reading, welding processes, and occupational safety. All apprentices are paid during training, with progressive wage increases as skills advance.
Upon completion, graduates earn journey-level standing in the sheet metal trade and full membership in Local 46. This opens the door to skilled employment with union contractors throughout the Rochester area and provides access to collectively bargained wages and benefits throughout a career in construction.
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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