Buffalo, NY (August 27, 2013) - The Sheet Metal Workers Joint Apprenticeship Committee, Local Union #71, will conduct a recruitment from September 5, 2013 through August 28, 2014 for 10 sheet metal worker apprentices, State Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera announced today.

Applications will be available at Local Union #71, 24 Liberty Avenue, Buffalo, NY each Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (with the exception of the third Thursday of each month, on which applications will be available from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.), excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. 

The Committee requires that applicants:

• Must be at least 18 years old – proof required after acceptance into the program.
• Must have a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D).  This must include one full year of high school algebra with a passing grade, or one post-high school algebra course with a passing grade.  Transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program.
• Must be physically able to perform the work of a sheet metal worker as determined by a physical examination and drug test given at the expense of the sponsor.
• Must sign an attestation of the following abilities:
  • Able to climb and work from ladders, scaffolds, poles, or towers of various lengths and heights.
  • Able to crawl and work in confined spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces.
  • Able to read and understand English.
  • Able to hear and understand verbal instruction and warnings given in English.
• Must have a valid driver’s license (apprentices can be expected to drive company vehicles).
• Must have reliable transportation to and from related instruction as well as job sites anywhere within the geographical jurisdiction of Local Union #71.  This includes Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties. 
• Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local Union #71 for at least one year prior to the application date.  Proof of residency will be required upon acceptance into the program.
• Must attend a personal interview.
• Must provide military transfer or discharge form DD-214, if applicable.

For further information, applicants should contact their nearest New York State Department of Labor office or Local Union #71 at (716) 835-8836.

Apprentice programs registered with the Department of Labor must meet standards established by the Commissioner.  Under state law, sponsors of programs cannot discriminate against applicants because of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, or marital status.  Women and minorities are encouraged to submit applications for apprenticeship programs.  Sponsors of programs are required to adopt affirmative action plans for the recruitment of women and minorities.