Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Workers Local 28
at Sheet Metal Workers Local 28 in Jamaica, NY
About This Program
The Sheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship offered by Sheet Metal Workers Local 28 is a union JATC program based in Jamaica, NY. Serving the New York City area, Local 28 is one of the most prominent sheet metal unions in the country, and its apprenticeship program reflects a deep commitment to trade quality and worker development.
The program runs five years, incorporating 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to fabricate and install sheet metal systems including HVAC ductwork, architectural metalwork, roofing systems, and specialty metal components across large commercial and industrial projects. Coursework covers blueprint reading, welding, applied mathematics, and safety. Apprentices receive wages from day one, escalating as they advance through the program.
Graduates earn journey-level credentials and full membership in Local 28, providing access to union-scale wages, comprehensive benefits, and steady employment opportunities across New York City's active and diverse construction market. A journey card from Local 28 is widely recognized throughout the industry.
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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