Sheet Metal Workers
The sheet metal worker works from sketches, blueprints, or verbal instructions necessary to make products, then installs a wide variety of articles made from sheets of steel, aluminum, copper, and other materials. They apply shop mathematics to lay out the work to be performed. A sheet metal worker uses manual or power-operated tools such as shears, breaks (for bending), punch and forming presses, and rolling and crimping machines to cut, bend, and shape the metal. They build the heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and exhaust system ducts in commercial buildings and homes. These workers make a wide variety of metal fittings and equipment for the construction industry.
Working Conditions
Sheet metal workers do a great deal more shop work than other construction trades. They usually spend most of the day at one work site when a project is in progress, moving to another site when it is completed. Sheet metal workers must always be careful because of the tools and sharp edges of the metal with which they work.
Aptitude and Interest
Those interested in becoming sheet metal workers should enjoy working with their hands. They must be able to follow instructions and work closely from shop drawings and blueprints.
Training
To become a skilled sheet metal worker, training is essential. It can be acquired informally through “learning-by-working,” company on-the-job training programs, trade or vocational/technical schools, unilaterally (management or labor) sponsored trainee programs, registered labor-management apprenticeship programs, or a combination of the above. It is generally accepted that the more formalized training programs give more comprehensive skill training. Recommended high school courses include English, general math, geometry, trigonometry, mechanical drawing, physics, and general science. Computer literacy is becoming more important as both layout and Computer Numeric Controlled Machinery (CNC) operation is facilitated by computers.
Wage Rates (as of August 2023)
Hourly Wage: $32.37
Annual Earnings (assuming 1800 hours): $58,446
+ Healthcare Coverage
+ Retirement Plan