Becoming a sheet metal worker in New Ulm, MN, 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 and require approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with an average salary of $21.23 per hour, equating to approximately $44,200 annually. In New Ulm, apprentices earn an average of $15.30 per hour, with experienced workers earning up to $23.60 per hour. Trade schools, unions, and training centers offer apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.