Embarking on a career as a sheet metal worker in New York and New Jersey typically begins with an 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 licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with 8,080 in New York, and projects a slight 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,400 per week in New York, with an average annual salary of $61,800. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' National Training Fund help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $100,000 annually for experienced professionals.
