We specialize in the recruitment, education, and training of skilled workers for the Sheet Metal Industry, ensuring each apprentice is set up for success.
Established in 1965, our sheet metal apprenticeship program is proudly registered with the State of Nevada and affiliated with SMART Local 26, which has been serving the industry since 1942.
Our four-year, paid union apprenticeship program in Reno-Sparks, NV, integrates hands-on experience with classroom learning. Apprentices earn competitive wages and benefits while developing critical skills in HVAC, welding, architectural sheet metal and service. Over 200 apprentices are enrolled in our program at any given time. Each year, we “turn out” or graduate an average of 20 highly trained apprentices who earn their official journey card and become professional journey-level workers in the field.
Mission Statement
The Northern Nevada Sheet Metal & HVAC Apprenticeship collaborates with two organizations: Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Local 26 and the Nevada Association of Mechanical Contractors (NAMC). SMART are the union members. All apprentices join Local 26. NAMC represents the contractors who employ our apprentices and journeypersons. We believe that through the attitude of working together, we can achieve our goals.
Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Local 26 delivers high-quality sheet metal work and offers exceptional career opportunities and benefits to members across Reno and Northern Nevada. Our members in the building and construction trades handle layout, fabrication, assembly, and installation of sheet metal products in both shop and field settings.
The Northern Nevada Sheet Metal & HVAC Apprenticeship provides industry-leading training. Located in Sparks, NV, our expert instructors equip apprentices with vital skills in HVAC, welding, and sheet metal work, ensuring they excel in their careers and offer unparalleled expertise to contractors.
SMACNA is a leading trade association for the Sheet Metal and HVAC industries, setting standards in safety, technical quality, and training. With members like the Nevada Association of Mechanical Contractors (NAMC), SMACNA supports contractors through certifications, education, and advocacy to drive excellence and innovation across the industry.
Our program proudly partners with 13 contractors, also known as training agents, who play a vital role in employing and training our apprentices and journeypersons. These contractors range from small, specialized shops to large-scale operations, serving diverse sectors within the Sheet Metal Industry. Their commitment helps shape the next generation of skilled professionals.
1237 Gator Way, Sparks, NV 89431
(775) 331-6393
Our 18,000-square-foot training facility is designed to provide apprentices with immersive, hands-on learning using modern equipment and technology representative of today’s sheet metal, HVAC, welding, and fabrication industries.
We continue to invest in our facility and training capabilities to provide apprentices with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the field. Our training resources include:
Northern Nevada Sheet Metal & HVAC Apprenticeship holds Platinum Level Accreditation from the International Training Institute (ITI), accredited through 2029, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining a high standard of education and training within the sheet metal industry.
We are also an American Welding Society (AWS) Educational Institution Member, further supporting our commitment to welding education, skills development, and industry standards.
Our industry and community partners are essential to your success, offering a wealth of resources to support your apprenticeship and career in the union Sheet Metal Industry. Their contributions ensure you have the tools and opportunities needed to thrive.
As part of a local union that has served this community for decades, our Board fosters an environment where apprentices and journeypersons alike can refine their skills and advance in their trades. By working in close collaboration with labor representatives, management professionals, and training specialists, the Board ensures that our programs stay current, meet industry standards, and reflect the core values of safety, craftsmanship, and solidarity that define our organization.
“Our goal is to provide apprentices with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on training they need to build successful careers in the sheet metal and HVAC industry while continuing to meet the changing needs of our contractors and industry.”
