Becoming a sheet metal worker in Santa Maria, CA, typically begins with a comprehensive apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the sheet metal trade last between 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 a projected job growth of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. The average hourly wage for sheet metal workers in Santa Maria is $984, translating to approximately $49,176 annually. Trade schools, unions, and apprenticeship programs offer aspiring sheet metal workers opportunities to gain the necessary skills and experience, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $100,000 annually for experienced professionals.
