Becoming a sheet metal worker in Calhoun, GA, typically begins with a structured apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to five years, with 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 an average hourly wage of $21.23, translating to approximately $849 per week. In Calhoun, GA, apprentices earn an average of $15.30 per hour, with an annual overtime average of $2,656. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
