Sheet Metal Worker at Western Michigan Sheet Metal JATC Local 7 Zone 2
at Western Michigan Sheet Metal JATC Local 7 Zone 2 in Flint, MI
About This Program
Western Michigan Sheet Metal JATC Local 7 Zone 2, based in Flint, MI, sponsors this union Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship as part of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association Local 7 regional training structure. Apprentices enter the workforce immediately, earning wages from day one while building skills under experienced journeyworkers.
The apprenticeship 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 projects across western Michigan, gaining hands-on experience in fabricating and installing HVAC ductwork, ventilation systems, roofing, and architectural sheet metal. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, trade mathematics, welding, layout techniques, and workplace safety regulations.
Upon completing the program, apprentices earn journeyworker status with Local 7, a union credential valued throughout Michigan and the broader Midwest construction market. Sheet metal journeyworkers with union standing benefit from negotiated wages, benefits, and strong career advancement prospects.
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
Licensing in Michigan
Sheet Metal Workers in Michigan are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes.
View full Michiganlicensing requirements →Reviews
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