Sheet metal training gives students a range of skills. They learn to do
everything from assembling eavestroughs to installing air conditioning systems.
You'll need to complete an apprenticeship, which combines on-the-job
training with classroom study. Apprentices earn a wage, and must pass a test
at the end of their apprenticeship to be promoted to journeyperson status.
A high school diploma is usually required to get into these programs.
Some people pick up the trade by working as helpers to experienced sheet
metal workers. But they still take vocational school courses in math or sheet
metal fabrication to supplement their work experience. To be promoted to the
journeyperson level, they must pass the same written examination as apprentices.
Some colleges offer a pre-apprenticeship course designed to lead into a
formal apprenticeship. Or they may provide the classroom portion of apprenticeship
training in conjunction with government or trade-union sponsored programs.
American apprenticeship programs consist of four or five years of on-the-job
training and a minimum of 144 hours per year of classroom instruction.
In high school, focus on your math, science and shop classes. Ric
Olander, assistant director and head instructor at the Sheet Metal Training
Center in Oregon, says he looks for apprentices who are "college-bound people
willing to work hard, who can be team players, have good communication skills
and can take direction well."
The minimum educational requirements for his program are three years of
high school English, one year each of geometry and science, plus any five
of the following -- mechanical drawing, chemistry, algebra, trigonometry,
shop, biology, physics or calculus. Olander emphasizes that students must
have minimum mark of C in all of these classes.
Apprentices must be trained by a skilled trade worker. Applicants need
to have an agreement with an employer who will provide them with the work
experience established by the industry's training standards.
Once in the program, apprentices' classroom training includes drafting,
plan and specification reading, trigonometry and geometry, the use of computerized
equipment, welding and the principles of heating, air conditioning and
ventilating systems.
On the job, apprentices learn the basics of pattern layout and how to
cut, bend, fabricate and install sheet metal. They begin with basic ductwork
and gradually advance to more difficult jobs, such as making more complex
ducts, fittings and decorative pieces. They also work with fiberglass, plastics
and other non-metallic materials.
Apprentices may have to buy textbooks and equipment like safety boots,
coveralls, safety glasses, measuring tape and padlocks. First aid courses
may also be required.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Sheet
Metal Workers
ArtMetal Village
A site dedicated to artistic metalworking
American Iron and Steel Institute -- Steel Works
News, statistics, publications and other information for steel
workers
Working With Sheet Metal
Here are some tips for the home handyperson
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association
Offers distance education information