Becoming a sheet metal worker in Oakland, CA, 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 approximately 5,500 in California, and projects a 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $647 per week in California, with an annual salary averaging around $33,644. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' Local Union 83 help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
