Training

Local 32 - Apprentice Training in West Palm

Welcome to the West Palm Beach Training Center Homepage.

S.M.W. Local 32 Joint Apprenticeship Training Center
1003 Belvedere Road
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Phone: (561) 659-6093
Fax: (561) 655-2872

James F. Combs, Training Director

Apprenticeship - What is it?

The Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 32 Apprenticeship & Training Program is a Joint Labor-Management apprenticeship program that offers free training and on-the-job training. This means you “earn while you learn”. Our industry is in need of young men and women with the aptitude to listen and learn to become a skilled sheet metal worker.

Our program selects apprentices based on qualifications without regard to sex, race or ethnicity, creed or nation of origin.

Our training facility has gone through a stringent audit and review by the International Training Institute. Having complied to accreditation standards, in thirteen (13) categories we were awarded with a gold level of accreditation.

We are also an American Welding Society Accredited Test Facility. This allows us to administer welding performance tests and to provide Certifications to the welder who has met all of the requirements for a specific certification.

Our program has been registered with the State of Florida, Department of Education since 1947. We also have a working relationship with the Broward County Public School system.

Apprenticeship - How it Works

Usually applicants are put to work as pre-apprentices. This gives the person a chance to work in the trade to see what sheet metal workers do. In this position the applicant works a full time job but does not attend school classes. Many people do not know what type of work we do, the pre-apprentice position gives them the opportunity to see what we do in our trade.

Pre-apprentices must meet the same qualifications as an apprentice. (See the qualification sheet and application.)

As new apprentices are needed they are selected from the existing pre-apprentices. Once you are selected for the apprenticeship program you will start attending evening classes two (2) nights a week. After four (4) years the individual graduates and becomes a journeyman. Advancement is not automatic, each year students are tested in general knowledge of the trade as well as actual hands on projects.

Apprenticeship Requirements

REQUIRED PAPERWORK AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Applicant shall be 18 years of age or older
• Applicant must be able to perform the physical requirements of the trade.
• Birth Certificate
• Valid Florida driver’s license & reliable transportation
• Social Security card

A High School Diploma or GED equivalent is not required, but recommended.  All applicants will take a basic math test in which you must receive a 70% or better to move on to the interview process.

When you have completed the application and have all of the required paperwork call (561) 655-6093 to set up an appointment to come in for an interview.