Becoming a sheet metal worker in Watertown, SD 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 slightly contract by 0.2% from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Watertown earn an average of $680 per week, with experienced professionals earning up to $844.67 per week. This trade offers a pathway to a stable career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $44,200 annually for experienced sheet metal workers.
