If you're considering a career in the sheet metal trade in Daytona Beach, FL, in 2025, you'll need to begin with vocational training or apprenticeships, gain four years of experience, and pass exams for certification like the Certified Sheet Metal Specialty Contractor License. This path typically takes 4-5 years and involves costs for training and exams, with salaries ranging from $17 to $72 per hour based on job listings 12. The job outlook remains steady or increasing, driven by market growth to $441.07 billion by 2034, offering roles in HVAC and construction through employers in the area [see https://www.getgild.com/near-me/sheet-metal-jobs-in-daytona-beach--florida].
Sheet metal workers are skilled professionals who fabricate, install, and maintain sheet metal products in various settings, including HVAC systems, roofing, and industrial equipment. In Daytona Beach, FL, this role often involves working on commercial and residential projects, requiring precision in cutting, shaping, and assembling metal while adhering to safety standards 3. With the demand for these skills growing due to construction and manufacturing trends, sheet metal workers play a vital part in supporting local infrastructure and economic development.
Yes, in Daytona Beach, FL, a license is required for many sheet metal roles, especially for contracting or unsupervised work. To obtain a Certified Sheet Metal Specialty Contractor License in Florida, you must have four years of experience, including at least one year as a foreman, and pass the Trade Knowledge and Business and Finance exams 45. These requirements ensure that workers meet industry standards for safety and quality, with exams covering topics like installation, fabrication, and regulatory compliance 6.
According to available programs, apprenticeships for sheet metal workers in or near Daytona Beach, FL, typically last 8,000 hours over 4 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Key programs include the SMART Local #435 Apprenticeship, which is tuition-free and focuses on skills like blueprint reading and safety practices, though it's based in North Florida 3. To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings, or explore options with unions like SMART Local 15 in Central Florida 2.
| Apprenticeship Program | Duration (Years) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SMART Local #435 | 4 | Tuition-free, 180 hours of instruction per year, on-the-job training 3 |
| General Florida Programs | 4-5 | Varies by provider, often includes HVAC focus 7 |
To start, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and possess basic skills in math and mechanical work. Coursework in algebra, geometry, and computer literacy is beneficial for understanding technical drawings and software used in the trade 3. Ensure you're physically fit and ready to handle tools and safety protocols specific to sheet metal work.
While not always mandatory, enrolling in a program like the SMART apprenticeship provides foundational knowledge in fabrication, welding, and HVAC systems. These programs, available through regional unions, offer hands-on training and can be found via Gild, which aggregates job and training opportunities in Daytona Beach [see https://jobs.getgild.com/near-me/sheet-metal-jobs-in-daytona-beach--florida]. This step helps build essential skills without immediate certification costs.
Complete at least four years of experience, including apprenticeships, to qualify for licensing. In Daytona Beach, roles like HVAC Sheet Metal Mechanic provide paid training and real-world practice, with job listings on Indeed showing 22 openings as of 2025 1. This experience is crucial for passing exams and advancing in the field.
After gaining experience, pass the 5-hour Trade Knowledge Exam (80 questions) and the 6.5-hour Business and Finance Exam (120 questions) to secure your license 5. Use resources like Cam Tech School for exam preparation [see https://www.camtechschool.com/details.php?license=sheet_metal]. Once certified, you'll be eligible for higher-paying positions with benefits like paid training 89.
With your license, consider advancing to supervisory roles or specializing in areas like automotive or construction sheet metal work. Salaries in Daytona Beach range from $17 to $72 per hour, influenced by experience and demand, which is projected to grow with the global market 210. Join unions or use Gild for ongoing opportunities and professional development.
Embarking on a sheet metal career in Daytona Beach, FL, in 2025 offers steady job growth and competitive pay, making it a rewarding path for those with mechanical skills. Check out Gild for the latest apprenticeship and job listings, and prepare by focusing on key qualifications to secure your future in this essential trade.
https://www.indeed.com/q-sheet-metal-l-daytona-beach,-fl-jobs.html ↩ ↩2
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Sheet-Metal/-in-Daytona-Beach,FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.glassdoor.com/Job/daytona-beach-sheet-metal-worker-jobs-SRCH_IL.0,13_IC1154028_KO14,32.htm ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.licensesetc.com/2020/01/24/steps-to-get-a-sheet-metal-contractor-license/ ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-sheet-metal-l-s-daytona,-fl-jobs.html ↩
https://skilled.peopleready.com/job/hvac-sheet-metal-mechanic-19/ ↩
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/c/RAMS-Skilled-Trades/Job/Commercial-HVAC-Sheet-Metal-Mechanic-Daytona/-in-Daytona-Beach,FL?jid=d20387d961529363 ↩
https://www.glassdoor.com/Job/daytona-beach-sheet-metal-jobs-SRCH_IL.0,13_IC1154028_KO14,25.htm ↩
