Sheet Metal Worker FAQ

Usually four to five years.

They’re related. Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork; HVAC technicians install and service the equipment.

Many do, especially on stainless steel, kitchen exhaust and architectural work.

The median annual wage for sheet metal workers was $61,800 ($29.71 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,630 and the highest 10% earned more than $105,650.

Most people need about 4–5 years (apprenticeship) of training. A high school diploma is typical. Most sheet metal workers complete a four- to five-year registered apprenticeship that includes paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction in drafting, math, welding and safety. Some start in technical college programs.

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus apprenticeship.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.5% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 9,800 openings each year. Upsides include paid apprenticeships with good benefits; a common challenge is that cuts from sharp metal.

Key technical skills include pattern layout, blueprint and shop drawing reading, metal forming with brakes and rollers, and seaming, riveting and welding. Employers also value spatial reasoning, precision, and teamwork.

Common credentials include Apprenticeship completion, OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Construction, AWS welding certification, and TAB certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.