Many sheet metal workers begin as an apprentice.
If you want to work in a specialized trade, such as metal fabrication, a number of options are available. Most start as an apprentice, working on the job while taking classes at a vocational school to learn more about the trade. Other programs include associate's degrees and certificate programs from community colleges that provide education before entering the workforce.
Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College offers traditional degree programs as well as vocational and technical education. The college has over 170,000 students and offers approximately 300 degree and certification programs over eight campuses. Miami Dade College specifically offers a sheet metal apprenticeship as part of their career technical education certificate programs. A progression of courses is offered starting with an introduction to the sheet metal trade, advancing to shop production and organization. A co-op program is offered to provide a work-study experience before completion.
Vincennes University
Vincennes University in Vincennes, Indiana provides vocational and technical training, including a comprehensive education in machine trades technology. Students take a hands-on approach and learn to turn raw materials into parts, tools or machines. According to Vincennes, they are one of the few schools in the United States offering specialized training with complex metal-stamping dies and injection molds.
Sheet Metal International Training Institute
The Sheet Metal International Training Institute, established in 1971 supports training for apprentices and workers in the sheet metal industry. The Institute has 160 training facilities in the United States and an additional 21 in Canada. An accreditation board including representatives from Ivy Tech, Kansas State University, the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) and the Sheet Metal Workers International Association (SMWIA) accredits the individual training centers. According to the school's website, all courses and learning materials are free to trainees while they learn.
Spokane Community College
Spokane Community College in Spokane, Washington, opened in 1957 today offers 19 apprenticeship-training programs. The apprenticeship-training program for sheet metal workers offers on-the-job training as well as classroom study over the apprenticeship period, which is usually two to four years. Student workers are paid a journeyman rate on their apprenticeship jobs that increases with the training.
