JOB DESCRIPTION

In spite of technological changes, the Sheet Metal Worker remains nearly the only building tradesperson to start with raw materials, custom-make complex systems and then install them. He/she can transform flat sheets of metal into any size or shape that is required by working from a blueprint or verbal instructions. Being a Sheet Metal Worker involves the fabrication, erection, installation, repairing, replacing and servicing of all residential heating and air conditioning systems and the architectural sheet metal work on such residences.

Workers will gain a knowledge of heating, cooling and ventilation systems; techniques of welding, and the functions of compressors and condensers in the refrigeration cycle. Work includes areas such as solar installation, hoisting and rigging, soldering, energy management, and retrofitting of environmental systems.

The three main concepts used for making sheet metal patterns require knowledge of triangulation, radial line and parallel line development.

Most people consider the term "air conditioning" to merely imply cooling the air. But air conditioning is much more comprehensive when the term "conditioning the air" is used. Sheet Metal Workers help provide these types of systems, which heat, cool, and ventilate-- providing a completely controlled environment.

The rapidly expanding use of new materials and processes in manufacturing plants throughout the nation today is presenting new health hazards at an alarming rate. The Sheet Metal Workers also helps provide systems that will safely remove fumes, dust, smoke, heat, odors, carbon dioxide and other dangerous contaminants to combat this situation.

Sheet Metal Workers also have an important role in making the large amount of sheet metal work that goes into sign making, hospital and restaurant equipment, aircraft and shipbuilding. In addition, the knowledge and skill of the Sheet Metal Worker is needed by other industries in products requiring sheet metal work.

A booklet can be requested by contacting the business agent.

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Applications for apprenticeship are taken year-round, by appointment at the following address:

Central Minnesota JATC
1903 - 4th Street North #112
St. Cloud, MN 56303
(320) 685-9995 FAX (320) 259-6006

Contact Person
Steve Raatikka, Business Agent

Program includes 8,000 hours (approximately 4 years) of on-the-job training and about 192 hours of related instruction each year.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must be a high school graduate or possess a Certificate of Equivalency (GED).
• Must be able to pass a reading, math and mechanical comprehension test While it is not required that an applicant be a graduate of or have attended a sheetmetal program from a technical vocational institute, consideration will be given in the selection process for such graduation and/or attendance.
• Must possess the physical ability to perform the duties of the craft.
• Apprenticeship applicants shall furnish the following along with their application:
  1. Birth certificate or reliable information on date of birth.
  2. High school diploma or GED certificate.
  3. High school transcript showing grades and attendance.
  4. Post high school diploma(s), certificates, and/or transcripts, if applicable.
  5. Military discharge and Form DD-214, if applicable.
  6. A physical examination may be required prior to the indenturing of an apprentice.

There is a probationary period of not more than five hundred (500) hours of employment and related instruction. During this period, the committee upon request of either party will make annulment of the apprenticeship agreement.

Tools Needed

Workers need to provide themselves with their own hand tools (such as a screw driver, prick punch, dividers, crescent wrench, a small whitney, center punches, pliers, hammers, etc.). Costs run around $600.

Transportation Requirements

Workers are expected to be able to get to the job on time; the union represents many shops outside of the Metropolitan area, thus workers are sometimes required to move around.

Hours

In the winter, the hours are generally from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. During the summer, the hours vary, with 8-hour days anywhere between 6:00 AM and 4:30 PM.

Wages

Apprentice starts at 50% of the wage earned by a journeyperson. He/she will receive increases of 5% every 1,000 hours worked until reaching journey level rate.

Union Dues

The initiation fee comes to a total of 100 times the journey level base wage. This is usually paid within a couple of years, and must be paid in full before an apprentice becomes a full-fledged journeyperson. Part of the apprentice's monthly dues goes towards paying that fee. Membership dues are $45 each month for apprentices and $90 each month for journeypeople.