If you're looking to jumpstart a career in the sheet metal trade in Denver, CO, one of the most effective pathways is through the Colorado Sheet Metal Workers’ Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program (JATC), affiliated with SMART Local #9 and SMACNA Colorado. This highly competitive "Earn While You Learn" program lasts four years and combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing you to graduate debt-free with industry-recognized certifications. For more on apprenticeship details, check out SMACNA Colorado's site 12.
Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what being a sheet metal worker entails. Sheet metal workers fabricate, install, and maintain HVAC systems, ductwork, siding, roofing, and decorative metal products used in commercial, residential, and industrial settings. This work often includes operating heavy machinery, soldering, welding, and assembling components, all while adhering to state and national building codes; explore metal fabrication trends via CFAW's report for deeper insights 2.
Yes, while there is no specific state-wide licensure required, professional certification through structured apprenticeship programs is essential to work as a journeyman sheet metal worker and to ensure competitive wages and job eligibility in Denver, CO 12.
The Colorado Sheet Metal Workers’ Apprenticeship and Training Program, offered by SMART Local #9 in coordination with SMACNA Denver, has specific requirements for entry. The 4-year program includes paid on-the-job training, free classroom instruction, and progressive salary increases for apprentices 13. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and show a basic proficiency in math and mechanical aptitude 23.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Skills Required | Mechanical aptitude, basic math proficiency, physical stamina, reading comprehension |
| Application Name | Sheet Metal Worker Apprentice |
| Approximate Duration | 4 years |
| Apprenticeship Provider | SMART Local #9 & SMACNA Colorado |
To get started, aspiring metal fabricators can apply directly through SMART Local #9’s Apprenticeship Program. Using platforms like Gild helps connect job seekers with open sheet metal apprenticeship positions in real time, streamlining the job search 2. Additionally, learn more about wage data from PayScale's Denver sheet metal insights 2.
To qualify for the Colorado Sheet Metal Workers’ Apprenticeship and Training Program, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
Some applicants may choose to complete pre-apprenticeship courses through vocational high schools or local technical programs to enhance readiness, though not mandatory 13.
The apprenticeship program is free to join, featuring no tuition or fees, and offers paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction aligned with industry standards 3. Participants also earn college credits applicable toward associate degrees, with graduates receiving certifications across multiple sheet metal professions 1.
To find an apprenticeship opportunity or gain eligibility:
While working as an apprentice, you will be supervised by experienced journeyman and master sheet metal workers, learning tasks including but not limited to:
Apprentices will gradually increase their hourly wage and skill level as they progress in the program and demonstrate knowledge in safety, equipment operations, welding, and industry-standard practices 4. Upon graduation, you receive certifications recognized nationally and within Colorado, qualifying you to become a journey-level sheet metal worker earning significantly more than entry-level positions, with an average wage between $23.07 and $31.86 hourly, depending on specialization 2.
Beyond the initial journey-level qualification, you can receive specialized certifications in fields such as:
With ongoing developments in automation, AI integration, and fabrication technologies, Denver-based sheet metal workers can continue growing through SMACNA and SMART Union offerings for advanced certifications and continuing education. More details on upcoming industry events like the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference can be found through the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA) 1.
Starting a sheet metal worker career in Denver, CO is an exciting way to enter a growing field aligned with construction, industrial engineering, and climate technology infrastructure. Whether you're transitioning careers or just starting out, following the steps above will set you on the path to becoming a highly skilled professional in the fabrication industry. With the sheet metal field growing by 5.6% nationally in 2025, now is the time to apply.
Be sure to check out Gild today for open sheet metal worker apprenticeships in Denver, and take the first step toward a stable, high-growth career.
