In short
Most sheet metal workers learn through a four to five year apprenticeship, often through SMART union locals or contractor programs, combining paid work with classes in layout, fabrication, welding and blueprints. Sheet metal workers earned a median $61,800 in May 2025, per BLS. The trade overlaps with HVAC, since much of the work is ductwork and air balancing.
| Middle pay | $61,800 a year, roughly $29.71 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 131,100 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 2.5% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 9,800, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Shop or field
| Shop work | Field work | |
|---|---|---|
| What you do | Cut, bend and weld metal into duct and fittings | Install duct, hangers and equipment on site |
| Conditions | Indoors, regular hours | Ladders, lifts, changing sites |
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Straight answers
How long is a sheet metal apprenticeship?
Usually four to five years.
Is sheet metal the same as HVAC?
They overlap. Sheet metal workers build and install ductwork; HVAC techs service equipment.
Is there much math in sheet metal work?
Yes, especially geometry for layout of fittings.