Becoming a sheet metal worker in Kearney, NE typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with approximately 800 in Nebraska, and projects a 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,038 per week in Nebraska, with an annual salary average of $54,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers Local 83 help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
