For those looking to launch a career as a sheet metal worker in Eufaula, AL, the journey begins with a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training 12. Alabama has approximately 2,400 sheet metal workers with 240 annual openings projected 3, and in Eufaula specifically, supervisors earn about $33/hour (annual salary $68,580), while regular sheet metal workers fall within the $35,100-$38,060 range 45. With a national growth projection of 2% for this occupation from 2023-2033 6, Eufaula offers an entry point into this stable trade.
Sheet metal workers fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products ranging from HVAC ducts to industrial equipment and roofing systems. Their work spans construction, manufacturing, and maintenance sectors, requiring skills in reading blueprints, measuring and cutting metal, and using specialized tools and equipment.
The job often demands physical stamina, manual dexterity, and comfort working at heights or in confined spaces. With the sheet metal industry embracing technologies like automation, robotics, and 3D printing 7, modern metal workers also increasingly work with advanced CNC machining and laser technology 4.
While Alabama doesn't require a general license to practice as a sheet metal worker, you must complete an apprenticeship program to work unsupervised8. If you plan to operate as a contractor, you'll need to pass the Alabama Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractor Exam administered by PSI, requiring a minimum score of 70% out of 60 questions5.
Completing a Sheet Metal Local 48 apprenticeship in Birmingham or Rogersville (AL) provides formal certification 74, though Eufaula has no training programs of its own.
The standard sheet metal apprenticeship program takes 4-5 years, during which apprentices receive both classroom instruction and paid, hands-on training.
To qualify for most apprenticeships, you must:
Here's a breakdown of typical sheet metal apprentice requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma or GED 9 |
| Age | At least 18 years old |
| Documentation | Copy of diploma or GED, transcripts, three letters of recommendation |
| Safety Training | OSHA 10 Construction course completion 1 |
| Program Length | 4-5 years |
| Training Format | Classroom instruction + on-the-job training 12 |
You can search for sheet metal apprenticeships in Eufaula and the surrounding area through Gild's platform.
Before applying for an apprenticeship, ensure you:
The OSHA 10 Construction course provides foundational safety knowledge required for most construction trades in Alabama. This 10-hour program can typically be completed online or in-person 1.
An apprenticeship is the most common entry into the field. The typical apprenticeship structure:
Though Eufaula doesn't have apprenticeship programs locally, Sheet Metal Local 48 in Birmingham offers a formal training program that interested Alabamans can access 7.
If you aim to run your own business, you'll need to pass both exams for contractor status:
With experience, sheet metal workers can specialize in niche areas like aviation sheet metal or custom fabrication, leading to increased earnings and more responsibility 5. Others may move into supervisory roles, project management, or business ownership 6.
The sheet metal industry is evolving rapidly with:
These developments mean the sheet metal workers of 2025 will need stronger technical skills alongside traditional metalworking abilities.
Experienced sheet metal workers in Eufaula have opportunities to progress:
With nearly 34% of the existing workforce expected to retire by 2025 5, this creates numerous advancement opportunities for newer workers with ambition.
For sheet metal workers in Alabama, expect:
This compares below national averages, with states like Alaska and New Jersey paying $96,520 6, and metropolitan areas often offering more comprehensive benefits packages to offset expenses.
While Alabama overall experienced significant economic development (over $6 billion in new projects in 20233), Eufaula specifically maintains an economy driven by timber, wood operations, and companies like Tyson Foods and Westrock6.
Though Eufaula has declining population trends (annual rate of -1.15%) and higher poverty rates (23.51%), Alabama's projection of 240 annual sheet metal jobs openings suggests continuing opportunities in construction, HVAC, and manufacturing trades 3.
Starting a career as a sheet metal worker in Eufaula opens a path to a skilled trade with advancement opportunities, competitive wages, and growing technological sophistication. Whether you're finishing school or changing careers, following these steps will build a solid foundation for long-term success in the trade. As you progress, the sheet metal field in Alabama will offer increasing responsibilities and potential for leadership roles.
To begin your journey:
The sheet metal trade offers a dynamic, evolving career path with opportunities for technical growth, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With a steady flow of work through construction, renovation, and manufacturing, skilled workers will be in demand throughout Alabama for years to come.
https://www.smart-union.org/sm-local-48/about-local-48/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.ache.edu/wp-content/Instruction/2025_Statewide_InDemand_Occ.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Welding/-in-Eufaula,AL ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
Columbus GA Sheet Metal Trade 2025 Job Outlook Training Pay | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
Sheet Metal Trade Jobs 2025 Columbus AL Get Hired Now | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
Sheet Metal Trade Jobs 2025 Columbus AL Get Hired Now | Gild ↩
