Becoming a sheet metal worker in Wilmington, NC, typically begins with an apprenticeship, which combines practical experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the sheet metal trade last about three to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600 hours of classroom instruction. The average hourly wage for a sheet metal worker apprentice in Wilmington is $21.23, with an average annual salary of approximately $44,200. With experience, sheet metal workers can earn up to $56,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and training programs offer apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
