Becoming a sheet metal worker in Tumwater, WA, 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 average hourly wage for a sheet metal worker apprentice in Washington is $18.39, with experienced professionals earning up to $24.79 per hour. The industry offers diverse opportunities across commercial, residential, and industrial sectors, with a projected need for approximately 5,200 new sheet metal workers by 2032 to replace retiring workers. Trade schools, unions, and training centers provide pathways to apprenticeships, leading to a career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
