Becoming a sheet metal worker in Fort Drum, NY, 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. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in New York earn an average of $15.30 per hour, translating to approximately $612 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union 46 help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
