At ABC we want to help you plan and realize dreams. Research shows that apprenticeship training gives construction workers a considerable advantage over those trained by informal means.
Advantages include:
- Qualifies you for a higher level of pay
- Exposes you to the latest technology and building codes
- Offers you life-long job mobility through a nationally recognized certification program of your skills
- Employs nationally certified instructors with nationally standardized curriculum including current textbooks, videos, and now CD-ROM
- You earn a passing grade and most employers pay for your training.
Sheetmetal workers make, install, and maintain air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and pollution control duct systems; roofs, siding; rain gutters and downspouts; skylights; restaurant equipment; outdoor signs; and many other building parts and products made from metal sheets. They may also work with fiberglass and plastic materials. Training in math and geometry are needed to calculate angles for fabrication and installation of mechanical systems. Some workers may specialize in testing, balancing, adjusting, and servicing existing air conditioning and ventilation systems. They may work in shops or on a job site, mostly indoors. A metal bending machine called a break and power metal snips are sometimes used to form and cut materials. Normal hand tools include hammer, measuring tape, and several types of snips.
About 3/4 of sheetmetal workers work for plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors. The remaining workers work with roofing and specialty contractors.
Sheetmetal workers must use their athletic capabilities. Eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, and physical balance are important. Workers often wear gloves to avoid sharp edges of materials. Thanks to safety training programs, employers have greatly reduced accidents on the job.
- Today, government and private studies confirm the shortage of skilled Sheetmetal Workers nationwide.
- Nationwide there were 110,000 Sheetmetal Workers in the 1996 census. The supply is low and the demand is high.
- Factoring in retirements, job changes, Sheetmetal Workers entering construction management or business ownership, it is easy to see the growing need for skilled Sheetmetal Workers.
- Future career path opportunities include jobs as estimator, distribution manager, inspector, project manager, trade instructor, foreman, and more…
- Construction is one of the few industries where an individual can still own his or her own business.
Sheetmetal workers can build a financially rewarding future and experience an exciting career.
- Job satisfaction—It is rewarding to see your skills in a finished structure
- Job security—high skills are in high demand
- Low stress—job requirements produce less mental stress
- Physical exercise—maintains a healthy body
- Hours of employment—usually weekends and evenings are free for recreation
- Unlimited earning power in an Unlimited construction career path