Would you enjoy using precision tools? Could you create a three-dimensional drawing? Are you good with mechanical things? Do you like working with your hands? Then, you could become a Sheet Metal Worker!
What do I do?
Sheet Metal Workers work indoors and out designing, fabricating, assembling, installing and repairing sheet metal, for everything from heating systems to shelving units. You could, for example, work for sheet metal, air-conditioning and heating contractors in residential, commercial and industrial construction or for roofing contractors installing flashing and coping. Deckers and Cladders are two types of Sheet Metal Workers. There are many opportunities in sheet metal work.
How do I advance?
With experience, you can become a specialist in design and layout work or in estimating the cost of installations. You can also advance to supervisory positions, or go into business for yourself.
With additional training, you can transfer your skills to related occupations such as Welder, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, Machinist, Millwright, Plumber, Boilermaker, Ironworker, Pipefitter, Gasfitter, Roofer or Insulator.
How much do I make?
Apprentices earn at least 50% of the journeyman wage rate in their first year of apprenticeship, 65% in the second, 75% in the third, and 85% in the fourth year. Journeyman wage rates vary, but generally range from $19.04 an hour to as high as $29.08 an hour, base wage (figures taken from 1999/2000 wage survey by Merit Contractors and Construction Labour Relations- Alberta). In addition to the basic hourly rate employers provide holiday and vacation pay. Employers may also provide other benefits such as group insurance for health, dental and vision care, retirement packages, and training benefits. In total, the value can range from 20% to 30% over and above the basic hourly pay rate.
A 40-hour workweek is normal. Some overtime may be required to meet construction deadlines.
Where do I go from here?
As a skilled Sheet Metal Worker, youÕll have the opportunity to get well-paying work. You can also upgrade your skills and perhaps move into higher level positions.
As with most careers in the construction industry, your skills in this occupation are portable so if you are interested in relocating you can take your skills with you!
How do I learn?
You can get a jump start on your future career in construction trades by checking out the Career and Technology Studies - Construction Technology courses offered at high schools. These hands-on courses are designed to help you build the basic skills you will use in the construction industry. For example, you might investigate Basic Tools and Materials CON1010, Climate Control Systems CON2090 or Sheet Fabrication FAB1090. See your school counsellor for more information.
The Apprenticeship and Industry Training Act of Alberta specifies that Sheet Metal Workers must be either a certified journeyman or a registered apprentice.
While youÕre still in high school, you can begin an apprenticeship program and earn high school credits at the same time! This is possible through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). After high school graduation, many RAP apprentices complete apprenticeship programs while working full-time.
To enter the Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship program, applicants must have Math 20 education or equivalent (or pass an entrance exam), and find an appropriate employer who is willing to hire and train an apprentice. Most employers prefer to hire high school graduates and select apprentices from among their current employees. A good background in practical math, geometry and blueprint reading is a definite asset.
To register in the apprenticeship program, the apprentice and the employer complete an application form together and submit it to the closest apprenticeship and industry training office. Once the application is approved, a contract is drawn up and signed by the apprentice and the employer.
The term of apprenticeship is four periods (four 12-month periods with a minimum of 1425 hours of employment each year). In addition to on-the-job training, the term also requires ten weeks of classroom training for each year. Applicants who have successfully completed related courses of study or work experience may be eligible for advanced standing in the apprenticeship program.
Classroom training is arranged by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training, and is currently being offered at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in Calgary. When apprentices attend training, they are required to pay the applicable tuition fee and purchase course supplies. Most apprentices are eligible for employment insurance (EI) while attending classroom training. For more detailed information, contact your local Human Resources Development Canada office.
Loans and grants are available on a needs-tested basis through Students Finance.
After successfully completing the required exams and working specified hours as an apprentice, you are awarded an Alberta Journeyman Certificate. If you pass an approved interprovincial exam, you qualify for the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal which means your trade qualifications are generally recognized throughout most of Canada.
Check out more info:
For further information on career planning, occupations and educational programs, contact the nearest Career Development Centre or Canada-Alberta Service Centre (see the "Government of Alberta" listings in the telephone directory).
Or, Alberta residents can contact the Career Information Hotline by telephone at
1-800-661-3753 (in Edmonton call 422-4266). Hearing impaired individuals can reach the Hotline by calling 1-800-232-7215 for message relay (in Edmonton call 422-5283).
