Becoming a sheet metal worker in Erie, PA, 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 approximately 8,000 hours of training under licensed professionals. The average hourly wage for a Sheet Metal Worker Apprentice in Erie is around $18.39, with experienced professionals earning up to $24.79 per hour. With approximately 3,600 sheet metal workers employed in Pennsylvania, and the industry projecting a slight contraction of 0.2% between 2022 and 2032, aspiring sheet metal workers can find opportunities through trade schools, unions, and training centers, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
