Becoming a sheet metal worker in North Bend, OR, 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, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours of classroom instruction. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with the job market projected to experience a slight contraction of 0.2% between 2022 and 2032. Apprentices in North Bend earn an average of $15.30 per hour, with an average annual salary of $44,200 for experienced professionals. 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.
