Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program

Classes begin in the fall term.  First and second-year classes are open to the public.  Apply for the program during an opening.  Women, Veterans, and minorities are encouraged to apply. 

Applications openings -

• Apply anytime during our opening February 1 - November 30
• Applications are screened monthly

Successful applicants

Complete applications are ranked based on points received during the application process. You will be sent out in rank order to apply to work for our employer partners. 

Mid-Valley Sheet Metal Committee, MA 1060 shall not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 18 years old or older. Mid-Valley Sheet Metal Committee, MA 1060 shall take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and shall operate the apprenticeship program as required under this Plan and Title 29 CFR, part 30.

Apprenticeship math placement

Math assessment is not required if you have completed one year of Algebra in high school or college with a C or higher. When applying for an apprenticeship program, provide a copy of your unofficial transcript with your application for proof. 

If you need the math placement assessment, email placement@chemeketa.edu and request the test for Apprenticeship.

Other questions or concerns? Contact apprenticeship@chemeketa.edu

Job description

Design, create, install and repair sheet metal products, including roofing, gutters and siding. Fabricate and install fittings and ductwork used in the construction industry for heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial and industrial applications. 

Working conditions

Work is both indoors and outdoors, using scaffolding, ladders, and high lifts--and may be in awkward positions and cramped spaces. You may work in shops performing fabrication or installation on constructions sites. 

Qualifications

• Proof of age: 17 years or older
• High school diploma or GED Certificate
• High School transcript with one year of algebra or equivalent with grade “C” or higher, OR one post high school algebra course with a grade “C” or higher OR place into Math 070 or higher on the Chemeketa math placement test

How much can you earn?

The average journey-level wage for sheet metal workers working for program training agents is $35.11 per hour.

There is an opportunity for two pay raises per year during the program. 

The wage scale is updated every year in February.

Training

Classroom instruction is combined with on-the-job training to provide the most comprehensive course of study for an apprentice in the sheet metal trade. This four-year program combines 7,200 hours of on-the-job training with concurrent related-training credit courses. Apprentices earn 15 academic credits a year and attend classes in the fall, winter and spring.

As a successful sheet metal apprentice, you may earn your journey-level card. 

Additional training and degrees

Additional Training and Degrees Credits can be applied to a Certificate or AAS degree and can transfer to OIT for a BS degree.

While waiting for an opening, you may compile a portfolio of documentation required for program entry.

• Diploma or GED certificate
• Transcripts from high school and college
• Placement test scores
• Work experience documented on letterhead with the tasks listed and years of service (construction related)
• Trades and safety certificates
• For Veterans, a copy of the DD214 long form

Suggested high school and college classes to prepare for your career

 Trade

• Blueprint Reading
• Construction Classes
• Drafting/CAD
• Electrical Theory
• Electronics
• Residential Wiring
• Trade Skills Fundamentals
• Welding

Math

• Algebra I & II
• Calculus
• Geometry
• Trigonometry

Other

• CPR/First Aid

Visit the following websites for more information.

Oregon Apprenticeship

Bureau of Labor and Industries

Women in Apprenticeship

MA #1060 Standards of Apprenticeship