Becoming a sheet metal worker in Sonora, CA 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. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a slight job growth projection of 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Sonora earn an average of $767.50 per week, with experienced professionals potentially earning up to $925 per week. Trade schools, unions, and training centers help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
