Apprenticeship Program
Overview
The Milwaukee Area Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee offers a comprehensive apprenticeship program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the sheet metal industry. Our program combines hands-on training with classroom instruction, ensuring that apprentices receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges of the trade.
Program Structure
THE TRADE
The sheet metal trade is one of the most demanding of all the skilled trades.
Most sheet metal workers are employed in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning) industry, where they fabricate, install, and maintain HVAC systems. Many other sheet metal workers are employed in specialty areas such as kitchen equipment, sign work, metal decking and siding, heavy metal work and blowpipe, ornamental and decorative sheet metal, and architectural work such as copper work, rain protection systems, and skylights.
THE BENEFITS
A sheet metal worker must possess a high degree of skill and training, which translates into high wages, good benefits and steady employment.
THE TRAINING
Training is attained through participation in a five year of not less than 9,000-hour apprenticeship training program, which consists of a combination of on-the-job training and related day and evening classroom instruction. Paid Related Instruction is approximately 520 hours, and Non-Paid Related Instruction is approximately 480 hours.
Schooling is currently being conducted through MATC Oak Creek Campus using the college semesters. Schooling will take 5 years to complete. As the apprentice advances through the apprenticeship program, he/she receives periodic pay increases. Upon completion of the program, the apprentice becomes a “journeyman” and receives the full journeyman’s rate.
THE OPPORTUNITIES
Sheet metal work is demanding yet rewarding. Due to the varied nature of the work, there are many career options available within the sheet metal trade, from field installation, shop layout, welding and service work, to drafting, estimating and energy management. Trained sheet metal journeymen may go on to become foremen or supervisors or maybe even run their own shop someday.
THE SKILLS
The apprentice has an opportunity to develop skills through training in subjects such as measuring, layout, fabrication, mathematics, drafting, welding, blueprint reading, heating and air conditioning service work, control systems, and air balancing.
THE JATC
This training is supervised by a concerned and progressive thinking coalition of Management and Union Labor called the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, which recognizes the necessity of having a well informed and well-trained work force.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for our apprenticeship program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Possess a valid driver’s license or valid ID.
- Birth Certificate or Social Security Card
- Pass a drug screening and physical.
We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply, as we believe that a variety of perspectives enriches our training environment.
Benefits of the Program
- Earn While You Learn: Apprentices receive competitive wages while they train, allowing them to support themselves financially as they gain valuable skills.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices will earn a nationally recognized certification, enhancing their employability and career prospects.
- Career Advancement: Graduates of our program are well-prepared for various roles within the sheet metal industry, including positions in HVAC, construction, and manufacturing.
