Sheet Metal Worker at SHEET METAL WORKERS of SWMO, LU 36, JATC
at SHEET METAL WORKERS of SWMO, LU 36, JATC in Springfield, MO
About This Program
The Sheet Metal Workers of Southwest Missouri, Local Union 36, JATC sponsors this five-year registered apprenticeship program in Springfield, Missouri. As a union JATC program, it combines the backing of organized labor with structured, employer-supported training — and apprentices earn wages throughout.
The program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to fabricate, install, and service sheet metal systems including HVAC ductwork, architectural metalwork, gutters, flashings, and industrial equipment. Classroom topics include applied math, blueprint reading, welding, and occupational safety.
Completing the JATC apprenticeship qualifies graduates as journeyman sheet metal workers, a respected trade credential that supports careers in commercial and industrial construction across the Midwest. Union journeymen also benefit from negotiated wages and access to ongoing training and advancement pathways.
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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