Becoming a sheet metal worker in Austin, MN, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. This comprehensive training lasts about four to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours of classroom instruction. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected job growth of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Austin, MN, earn an average of $649 per week, with an annual overtime average of $2,856. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union 19 help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
