Careers

WHAT DOES A SHEET METAL WORKER DO?

Sheet metal is a highly desirable trade both for its unique skill sets and its earning potential. Sheet metal contractors are the only trade that takes raw materials and fabricate what they install. From the HVAC systems that make the temperature in your homes comfortable, to safe healthcare, commercial and industry ventilation systems, to the striking exteriors of stadiums and office buildings, the finished products produced by career sheet metal workers touch every one, each and every day.

Click here for more information on careers in the sheet metal industry.

SHEET METAL APPRENTICESHIP

The Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program for San Diego is a joint effort by SMACNA of San Diego and SMART Local 206. The program is administered by a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) composed of an equal representation of labor and management. Financing for the program is generated through employer contributions under the collective bargaining agreement.

Sheet Metal (AP SM) is a five-year apprenticeship program accredited through Palomar College for 55 units toward your college degree

**CLICK HERE to apply!**

A.A. Degree Major or Certificate of Achievement
Program Requirements Units
AP SM 101 Core I – 4 units
AP SM 102 Core II – 4 units
AP SM 103 Core III – 4 units
AP SM 104 Core IV – 4 units
AP SM 105 Sheet Metal Welding – 4 units 3
AP SM 106 Plans & Specifications – 4 units 4
AP SM 107 Construction Plan Problem Solving – 4 units 4
AP SM 108 Introduction to Basic Refrigeration – 4 units 4
AP SM 109 Foreman and Project Management Training – 4 units 4
AP SM 110 Architectural Problem Solving – 4 units 4
AP WE 110 Sheet Metal Work Experience – 4 units 16
TOTAL UNITS 55

COURSE OFFERINGS
AP SM 101 Core I (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: Indentured apprentice to the San Diego Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
Note: May be taken 2 times
An introduction to the basic principles, processes, drawings, materials and practices used in the sheet metal industry.

AP SM 102 Core II (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: A minimum grade of ‘C’ in AP SM 101
Note: May be taken 2 times
A continuation of basic sheet metal processes as well as an introduction to simple sheet metal forming processes.

AP SM 103 Core III (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: A minimum grade of ‘C’ in AP SM 102
Note: May be taken 2 times
An introduction to intermediate sheet metal processes demonstrating job layout, architectural details and construction techniques with problems of unusual complexity and difficulty.

AP SM 104 Core IV (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: A minimum grade of ‘C’ in AP SM 103
Note: May be taken 2 times
A continuation of intermediate processes with problems of unusual difficulty and complexity.

AP SM 105 Sheet Metal Welding (3 units)
1½ hours lecture-4½ hours laboratory
Prerequisite: AP SM 104
Note: May be taken 2 times
An introduction to the basic principles and methods of gas and arc welding used in the sheet metal industry. Includes codes, standards, welding theory and the practical application using prescribed welding procedures and equipment.

AP SM 106 Plans and Specifications (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: AP SM 105
Note: May be taken 2 times
An introduction to the language and organization of plans and specifications for sheet metal projects. Topics will include architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical drawings as well as how to write and implement a change order to plans and specifications.

AP SM 107 Construction Plan Problem Solving (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: AP SM 106
Note: May be taken 2 times
Learn to apply detailing and research skills to create changes to plans and specifications using intermediate process problems of unusual complexity and difficulty.

AP SM 108 Introduction to Basic Refrigeration (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: AP SM 107
Note: May be taken 2 times
An introduction to the physical components and systems of a basic HVAC system as well as hands-on techniques for startup and basic system troubleshooting.

AP SM 109 Foreman and Project Management Training (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: AP SM 108
Note: May be taken 2 times
Overview of the knowledge, skills and abilities required to effectively perform as a foreman and project manager in the sheet metal industry.

AP SM 110 Architectural Problem Solving (4 units)
3 hours lecture-3 hours laboratory
Prerequisite: A minimum grade of ‘C’ in AP SM 109
Note: May be taken 2 times
Overview of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of advanced architectural project performance.


Training Facility
The Sheet Metal Training Center is an off-campus facility of Palomar College and is operated by the JATC. The Training Center has a well-equipped sheet metal shop to provide hands-on instruction, and two classrooms with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and drafting tables for each student. Instructors are qualified sheet metal workers who are credentialed by the State of California. The instructors participate in continuing education by attending training sessions, sponsored by the Sheet Metal International Training Institute, at Ohio State University. The Apprenticeship Program includes instruction in layout and fabrication of duct and fittings as well as architectural sheet metal work. All apprentices are also taught drafting, blueprint reading and the latest in light gage welding technology.

Journeymen Training - 2022 Training Schedule
In addition to apprentice training, the JATC also sponsors journeyman upgrade training in areas such as testing and balancing of air conditioning systems, welding, first aid & CPR, and OSHA fall protection. Welding certification is also available through the JATC. Interested persons may contact Lorenzo Miles the JATC office at (619) 265-2758 or lmiles@smjatc.org

Journey Level Job Opportunities
In addition to training opportunities, there is currently a shortage of qualified Journey Level sheet metal workers. Experienced sheet metal workers who are looking for top pay and benefits are encouraged to contact Sheet Metal Workers' Local 206 at (619) 265-0501 or dgauthier@smart206.org