Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sheet Metal Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sheet Metal Apprenticeship
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Sheet Metal Apprenticeship (Green Bay, WI)
Programs Offered
- Sheet Metal Apprenticeship (5-Year Program)
- Hands-on Fabrication and Installation Training
- Pathway to Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker Certification
Program Overview
The Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) provides in-depth training in the fabrication, installation, and maintenance of sheet metal systems. Apprentices learn to cut, bend, and form sheet metal into components used in heating, ventilation, and air distribution systems. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on shop and field experience using modern fabrication tools and computerized equipment.
This program is ideal for individuals who enjoy technical precision, working with machinery, and building mechanical systems essential to construction and HVAC industries.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices receive real-world training in classroom and job-site settings, including:
- Cutting and shaping sheet metal using plasma cutters, brakes, presses, and rollers.
- Fabricating ducts and components for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints, layouts, and technical specifications.
- Installing and maintaining sheet metal systems in residential and commercial buildings.
- Following safety procedures and quality standards throughout fabrication and installation.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Completion qualifies apprentices for journeyman sheet metal worker certification in Wisconsin.
- Program includes classroom education in mechanical systems, blueprint reading, and safety codes.
- Graduates may pursue advanced roles in fabrication design, HVAC system layout, or project management.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Sheet Metal Apprentice: Earn wages while completing on-the-job and classroom training.
- Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker: Eligible for full trade pay and leadership positions upon completion.
- Advanced Roles: Opportunities to move into estimator, foreman, or fabrication supervisor roles.
Program Length
- 5-year apprenticeship program.
- Includes related classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of the online apprenticeship application.
- High school diploma, GED, or verified equivalent (transcripts, diploma, or verification required).
- Copy of driver’s license or reliable transportation to reach school and job sites.
- Minimum test scores required:
- Next Generation Accuplacer Reading: 239, Arithmetic: 250, QAS: 216, or
- ACT Reading: 15, Math: 16
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journey-level wage that increases each year—45% in the first year, 55% in the second year, 65% in the third year, 70% in the fourth year, and 75% in the fifth year. The average skilled wage rate for sheet metal workers in Wisconsin is approximately $39.24 per hour, plus benefits such as healthcare and retirement contributions.
Cost & Financial Support
The apprenticeship is tuition-free. Training is provided through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC). Apprentices earn wages while receiving high-quality instruction at no tuition cost.
Location
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) – Green Bay, WI
Training coordinated through ABC WI’s statewide apprenticeship network.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.