Sheet metal workers fabricate and install fittings and duct work used in construction or industry for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems in residential, commercial and industrial applications.

They install siding, roof gutters, skylights, restaurant equipment and outdoor signs. Sheet metal workers set up and operate shears, press brakes, hand brakes, bending rolls, welding machines and other equipment to cut, form and attach metal together for applications such as metal roofing and stainless steel work for restaurants, kitchens and hospitals.

They prepare shop and field drawings manually and with computer programs. Computer skills are becoming increasingly important for controlling industrial equipment.

The work is performed both indoors and out, using scaffolding, ladders and high lifts, and in awkward positions and cramped spaces.

Sheet metal workers may work in shops performing fabrication work or on construction sites, doing installation.

Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 17 years of age.

In addition, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, or international equivalent and have completed one year of high school algebra, Integrated Math 2, or equivalent post-high school algebra course(s) with a grade of C or better, or equivalent math placement test scores.

Classroom Hours: A minimum of 189 hours per year for 4 years.

On-the-Job Training: 7,200 hours (approx. 4 years)