Sheet Metal Worker at Sheetmetal Workers Local 17
at Sheetmetal Workers Local 17 in Providence, RI
About This Program
Sheetmetal Workers Local 17 in Providence, Rhode Island sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship for the Rhode Island and southern New England area. As a JATC-affiliated program, it brings together union contractors and Local 17 to provide apprentices with a rigorous, paid training experience fully recognized across the sheet metal industry.
The five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen on commercial and industrial job sites, developing skills in HVAC ductwork fabrication and installation, architectural sheet metal, roofing systems, and precision metal forming. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, applied math, welding, HVAC systems theory, and safety standards.
Graduates complete the program as journeyman Sheet Metal Workers, backed by the credibility of Local 17 union membership. Union affiliation supports access to prevailing wages, comprehensive benefits, and a network of contractors and opportunities throughout New England.
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.
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
Trade School
Licensing in Rhode Island
Sheet Metal Workers in Rhode Island are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Sheet Metal Workers.
View full Rhode Islandlicensing requirements →Reviews
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