Becoming a sheet metal worker in Champaign, IL, typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to five years, requiring many hours of training under skilled professionals. The average hourly wage for a sheet metal worker in Champaign, IL, is approximately $411.29, with an average annual salary of $44,200. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.