Becoming a sheet metal worker in Mount Airy, NC typically starts with a comprehensive 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 experienced professionals. The average hourly wage for a Sheet Metal Worker Apprentice in Mount Airy is $18.39, with experienced professionals earning up to $24.79 per hour. With a population of 11,860, Mount Airy offers a stable environment for sheet metal workers, with the industry generating approximately $34.1 billion in sales nationwide. This career path provides strong earning potential and opportunities for career advancement, with specialized training and certifications available through unions and trade schools.