Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Workers, Local 25, JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Sheet Metal Workers, Local 25, JATC in Carlstadt, NJ

About This Program

Sheet Metal Workers Local 25, JATC offers a five-year union apprenticeship program in Carlstadt, New Jersey. This JATC-backed program trains skilled sheet metal workers for careers in one of the nation's most active construction markets, with apprentices paid from the very first day of training.

Apprentices complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction over the five-year program. Training covers HVAC ductwork fabrication and installation, architectural and industrial sheet metal, roofing systems, welding, and precision layout. Classroom coursework includes applied math, blueprint reading, trade safety, and technical theory.

Graduates of the Local 25 JATC program earn journeyman sheet metal worker status, positioning them for strong career opportunities in the New York/New Jersey metro construction sector. Union journeymen also gain access to negotiated compensation packages and the professional support network of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association.

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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