Career: Sheet Metal Workers
You could say that sheet metal workers have the best of both worlds. They are craftworkers who work in the shops, doing the fine work of laying out, measuring, and cutting sheets of metal. And then they often join construction teams, putting the metal pieces together to make heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in new buildings.
Sheet metal workers can take pride in the fact that their work makes people more comfortable. It also plays an important role in protecting the health of factory workers, removing toxic fumes and other hazards.
Sheet metal workers cut and shape sheet metal for heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation systems, as well as outdoor signs, gutters, spouts, and other products using sheet metal. They also install and maintain sheet-metal constructions.
Did You Know?
- American Revolutionary War hero Paul Revere opened the first copper sheet rolling mill in the United States.
Are You Ready To...?
- See a project through from start to finish
- Use computers
- Make exact measurements
- Handle sharp tools and materials
- Work in a noisy environment
- Stand for long periods of time
- Lift heavy equipment and materials
It Helps to Be...
Strong, good with your hands, focused, and careful. This is a job where measurements must be exact, so it’s important to pay attention to details.
Make High School Count
- Do your best in English. You’ll be reading everything from blueprints to safety warnings.
- Pay attention in science and math, especially algebra and geometry. You’ll need them for planning layouts and taking measurements.
- Sign up for mechanical drawing, shop, and electronics. The hands-on experience you get drafting, working with tools will come in handy.
- Build computer skills. They’re becoming an important part of the work.
Did You Know?
- Sheet metal shops now use computers to find the best way to cut material and avoid waste.
Outlook
Government economists expect average job growth for sheet metal workers, compared to growth in other careers, through 2016. Jobs will open up as current workers retire or leave the business. And since sheet metal workers often take on renovation and maintenance work, they are better protected from the ups and downs of the economy than workers in other building trades. Formal training will give you a definite edge in the job market.
Compensation
The average yearly salary for sheet metal workers in 2008 was $44,310, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Keep in mind that apprentices start work at 40 to 50 percent of the salary earned by a journey-level worker. You can expect to receive raises throughout your training though, often every six months.
