Common questions
Frequently asked questions
The questions we hear most often — about joining the local, the apprenticeship, the trades we represent, and what membership in Local 235 delivers.
- How do I become a member of Local 235?
- Most members start through the apprenticeship — paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction, working under the Local 235 Collective Bargaining Agreement toward Red Seal certification. A High School Diploma or GED is required. If you already work in sheet metal or roofing, you can also join through organizing: call the hall at 519-945-0500, or organizer Dave Campbell directly at 519-980-6235. Every call is strictly confidential and never tied to your employer.
- What work do Local 235 members do?
- Members are sheet metal workers, roofers, and sheeters working across the industrial, commercial, institutional and residential sectors. The local represents four trade classifications — Sheet Metal, Roofing, Decking & Siding, and Air Balancing — covering fabrication, assembly, installation and repair of sheet metal systems, welding, drawing layout, and more.
- How long is the apprenticeship and what credential does it lead to?
- The apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction and leads to Red Seal certification. Apprentices learn the fabrication, assembly, installation and repair of sheet metal equipment and structures — from operating welding equipment and reading drawings to setting up scaffolding — under journeyperson supervision. A High School Diploma or GED is required. To learn about current openings and the application process, contact the hall at 519-945-0500.
- What benefits do members receive?
- Members and their families are covered by a comprehensive package: medical, dental and vision care, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, prescription drug coverage, a defined pension plan, and access to ongoing training and certification. Members can review and manage their coverage through the Union Benefits member portal.
- Is Local 235 part of a larger union?
- Yes. Chartered August 11, 1944, Local 235 is part of a larger family: the Ontario Sheet Metal Workers' & Roofers' Conference, SMART Canada, and the international SMART union — the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers — which together represent skilled tradespeople across Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico. The local's chartered jurisdiction covers Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent, and it services the Sarnia area.
Don’t see your question? Reach the hall.
Considering going union?
Call the Organizing Department.
Every call is strictly confidential — never tied to your employer.