Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Workers, Local 2, Kansas City

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Sheet Metal Workers, Local 2, Kansas City in Raytown, MO

About This Program

Sheet Metal Workers Local 2, Kansas City operates a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee program based in Raytown, Missouri. This five-year union apprenticeship prepares workers for a full career in the sheet metal trade, with apprentices earning competitive wages while they train.

The program delivers 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in HVAC duct fabrication and installation, roofing and architectural metal systems, welding, layout work, and the use of specialized tools and equipment. Classroom instruction reinforces applied math, blueprint interpretation, and safety practices.

Graduates achieve journeyman status within Local 2, positioning them for long-term careers on commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects throughout the Kansas City region. The union framework also provides access to benefits and continued professional development after graduation.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$26

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

640

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

5 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

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.

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

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration5 years
Starting wage$16.00/hr
Journeyman wage$26.33/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

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