Sheet Metal Worker at So Mn Sheet Metal Jac
at So Mn Sheet Metal Jac in Rochester, MN
About This Program
Southern Minnesota Sheet Metal JAC, based in Rochester, MN, sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship Committee. Serving the Rochester region and surrounding southern Minnesota communities, this program provides a union-supported pathway into the sheet metal trade with pay starting from the first day.
The program runs 5 years and is structured around 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on commercial and industrial construction projects throughout southern Minnesota, developing expertise in fabricating, installing, and maintaining sheet metal systems such as HVAC ductwork, ventilation equipment, metal roofing, and architectural metalwork. Coursework covers blueprint reading, trade math, welding, sheet metal layout, and workplace safety regulations.
Graduates earn journeyworker status with the Southern Minnesota Sheet Metal JAC — a union credential recognized by sheet metal contractors across the region and throughout the state. Union standing provides access to collectively bargained wages, health benefits, and retirement contributions.
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 Minnesota
Sheet Metal Workers in Minnesota are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
View full Minnesotalicensing requirements →Reviews
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