What is the Sheet Metal Workers Apprenticeship?

Benefits of an Apprenticeship

National Guidelines Standards of Apprenticeship

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sheet Metal Workers Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship with Local Union #218S is four-year program. Apprentices will have a full-time job and attend school part-time (Two evenings per week, September-May). The apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of work and school training.

Our program is certified with the U.S Department of Labor and the Illinois Department of Labor. We are an affirmative action and an equal opportunity employer.

Sheet Metal Work 

You will need to comply with Local 218S labor agreement covering employment and to remit dues. Hand tools are required (provided by apprentice). You'll work from ladders, scaffolds, various lifts and equipment.  You'll need to prepare to work outdoors in hot summers, cold winters, and all weather conditions. Learn more about what it's like to be a Sheet Metal Worker.

Training

As an Apprentice, you will receive receive core education in sheet metal, including hands on training, preparing you to become a skilled Sheet Metal Worker.  You'll receive customized training in:

  • Pattern Development / fabrication
  • Welding
  • Architectural fabrication and installation
  • Computer Aided Drafting (CAD / BIM)
  • Industrial Lagging
  • Blueprint and Specification Reading
  • Geometric Construction, Trade Math, including Trigonometry, Geometry
  • Safety Training
    • OSHA 30
    • Lift Training
    • CPR
    • Hoisting and Rigging
    • Fire Life Safety (Installation and inspection of Fire Dampers)

Benefits of a Sheet Metal Apprenticeship with Local Union #218S

  • Pay starts at 50% of current journeyperson
  • Receive a raise every 6 months with completion of required job hours and school hours (per state of Illinois DOL Standards)
  • Benefits include health insurance, 401K, two pension plans
  • Books, materials, and education and safety equipment power tools will be provided
  • iPad provided

Requirements

  • Applicant must meet one of the following:
    • Have graduated from high school
    • Be a current high school student and can provide a sealed letter from the high school stating the applicant is scheduled to graduate at end of current semester
    • Have earned a GED Certification.
  • Must reside in highlighted counties (Sangamon, Brown, Cass, Logan, Mason, Menard, Morgan, Schuyler, or Scott) three months prior to application 
  • Requires valid driver's license
  • Requires access to an email account
  • Must have good attitude work as a member of a team be ready to work in various conditions
  • Must pass drug test
  • Must pass physical agility test
  • Must pass entrance exam (ACT Workkeys) to qualify for interview process
  • Dependable transportation

National Guidelines Standards of Apprenticeship

Read the standards provided by Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I apply for the apprenticeship?

Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 218S Joint Apprentice Committee accepts applications for its apprenticeship program year round. In person applications will be accepted Tuesdays 9:00AM – Noon at the Sheet Metal Workers Training Center, 2855 Via Verde, Springfield Illinois 62703. Applications will be retained for two (2) years.

To be considered for a June  hire, completed application must be submitted by March 15th Workeys testing completed by March 29th

How do I schedule a qualification test?

Call or email the LLCC testing center. Stephanie.cummings@llcc.edu 217.786.2246 or Jennifer.ylton@llcc.edu 217.786.9102. At no cost to applicant.

What days and times can I take the test?

Tests can be given on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at  9 am or 1 pm. Thursday tests are given at 1 pm.

Where do I take the test?

Testing takes place at the LLCC testing center  5250 Shepherd Road, Springfield

The testing Center is located in Menard Hall, Room 1128 across the hall from Financial Aid Office

How long does the test take?

There are three sections: Math, Workplace Documents and Graphic Literacy. Each test is 55 minutes in length.

How do I study for the test?

We recommend using these practice tests:

testpreptraining.com/national-career-readiness-certificate-ncrc-free-practice-test

test-guide.com/free-workkeys-practice-tests.html

act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/workkeys-for-job-seekers/preparation.html

Can I retake the test? How much does it cost?

You may retest 3 times in 30 days. The cost is $15 per test. You must schedule an appointment to re-test. We suggest you study for a few days before retesting.

How much does it cost to apply?

There is no application fee for online applications or in-person applications.

Where can I apply in-person?

Application packets are available from 9 am- noon on Tuesdays only. Pick up an application at 2855 Via Verde, Springfield, Illinois


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