Becoming a sheet metal worker in Mount Vernon, IL, typically begins with a comprehensive apprenticeship, which combines approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 600 hours of classroom instruction over three to five years. This structured training program allows individuals to earn while they learn, with apprentices in the area earning an average of $15.30 per hour. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected job growth of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Opportunities for apprenticeships can be found through trade schools, unions, and various training programs, leading to a rewarding career with the potential to earn up to $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
