Sheet Metal Worker at Wichita Falls Sheet Metal Workers JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Wichita Falls Sheet Metal Workers JATC in Wichita Falls, TX

About This Program

The Wichita Falls Sheet Metal Workers JATC sponsors this union sheet metal worker apprenticeship in Wichita Falls, TX. As a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee program, it combines union oversight with industry expertise to produce skilled journeymen in North Texas.

This time-based apprenticeship lasts five years and is structured around 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 640 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn through hands-on jobsite work covering fabrication, installation, and maintenance of sheet metal systems — including HVAC ductwork, exhaust systems, and custom metal components. Technical classes address print reading, metal layout, welding, and workplace safety. All apprentices are paid throughout their training.

Upon program completion, graduates earn journeyman status and gain the professional and financial benefits associated with union membership. This apprenticeship provides a solid foundation for a skilled trade career in the Wichita Falls region and across the state.

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.

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

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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