Education · 1 of 5

The path

An apprenticeship, not a degree. Roughly four days a week on the job and classroom time in the evenings.

1. 1

   High school diploma or equivalent

   Grade 12

   A diploma or a GED (high school equivalency credential) plus solid math is what most training centers ask for. Shop classes help your application.

2. 2

   Apply to an apprenticeship

   Weeks to a year of waiting

   A SMART (International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers) local training center, or a contractor running its own registered program. Expect a math test, an interview and a physical.

3. 3

   Work and learn

   4 to 5 years

   Paid work beside a journeyman, plus classroom instruction in layout, welding, drawings and duct systems at a training center.

4. 4

   Certifications along the way

   During the apprenticeship

   Welding qualifications, rigging, and in many programs a specialty such as testing and balancing air systems.

5. 5

   Journeyman

   After your hours

   Full rate, a nationally recognized apprenticeship credential, and the option to run crews or move into detailing and estimating.