Becoming a sheet metal worker in Bishop, CA, typically begins with an apprenticeship that combines practical experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours of classroom instruction. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected job growth of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Bishop earn an average of $15.30 per hour, with an annual wage of approximately $3,920. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' National Apprenticeship Program help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
