Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Workers Local #17
at Sheet Metal Workers Local #17 in Dorchester, MA
About This Program
Sheet Metal Workers Local #17, based in Dorchester, MA, sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC). As a union program, apprentices benefit from collectively bargained wages that increase with each year of training, along with health and retirement benefits typical of union employment.
The apprenticeship runs 5 years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on commercial, industrial, and institutional projects, learning to fabricate, install, and maintain ductwork, ventilation systems, roofing, and architectural sheet metal. Classroom instruction covers trade math, blueprint reading, welding, fabrication techniques, and OSHA safety standards.
Graduates earn journeyworker standing with Local #17, a credential recognized by union contractors throughout Massachusetts and beyond. Sheet metal journeyworkers with union affiliation often enjoy strong wages, comprehensive benefits, and access to a broad network of employment opportunities.
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 Massachusetts
Sheet Metal Workers in Massachusetts are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure, Board of Sheet Metal Workers.
View full Massachusettslicensing requirements →Reviews
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