Becoming a sheet metal worker in Elgin, Indiana, typically begins with an apprenticeship, which combines practical experience with classroom instruction, 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. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with the industry projected to need about 5,200 new workers over the next decade. Apprentices in Elgin earn an average of $1,356.72 per week, with an annual overtime average of $48,540. 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.
