Becoming a sheet metal worker in Ithaca, NY, typically begins with a comprehensive apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, 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. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a slight job growth projection of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in New York earn an average of $1006 per week, with experienced professionals earning up to $56,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
