Sheet Metal Worker at Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 100, Cumberland Area JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 100, Cumberland Area JATC in Cumberland, MD

About This Program

Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 100, Cumberland Area JATC, based in Cumberland, MD, sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship. This Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program offers a structured, earn-while-you-learn path into the skilled sheet metal trade backed by union resources and training standards.

The 5-year program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience fabricating and installing HVAC ductwork, ventilation components, and architectural sheet metal on real commercial and industrial job sites. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, trade math, welding, sheet metal layout, and occupational safety.

Upon completing the program, apprentices are recognized as journeyworkers with Local Union 100 — a portable credential valued by union sheet metal contractors throughout Maryland and neighboring states. The trade offers solid career prospects with opportunities for advancement into foreman and supervisory positions.

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

Licensing in Maryland

Sheet Metal Workers in Maryland are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Maryland Department of Labor, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

View full Marylandlicensing requirements →

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