Sheet Metal Worker at West Virginia Sheet Metal Workers

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at West Virginia Sheet Metal Workers in Parkersburg, WV

About This Program

West Virginia Sheet Metal Workers sponsors an employer-based sheet metal worker apprenticeship in Parkersburg, WV. This non-union program provides a structured training opportunity for individuals looking to build a skilled trades career in the sheet metal industry serving the mid-Ohio Valley region.

The apprenticeship runs for five years, incorporating 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn the core skills of the trade — fabricating, installing, and maintaining sheet metal products such as HVAC ductwork, ventilation systems, gutters, and custom architectural components — while working under the guidance of experienced tradespeople. Technical coursework addresses safety practices, blueprint reading, applied mathematics, and trade-specific codes. Apprentices earn wages throughout the program.

Completing all requirements earns graduates recognition as journey-level sheet metal workers. This practical credential supports employment across commercial, industrial, and residential construction in West Virginia and neighboring states, and provides a foundation for long-term career growth in the trades.

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.

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

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