Embarking on a career as a sheet metal worker in Elmira, NY typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction and allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the sheet metal trade last about four to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under experienced professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with 40,670 in New York, and the job market is expected to grow by 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Elmira earn an average of $714.67 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $800 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential.
