There are currently an estimated 127,000 sheet metal workers in the United States. The sheet metal worker job market is expected to grow by 2.4% between 2024 and 2034.

How employable are sheet metal workers?

CareerExplorer rates sheet metal workers with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 3,100 sheet metal workers.

Are sheet metal workers in demand?

Demand and employment growth for sheet metal workers over the next decade will result from an expected increase in construction of industrial, commercial, and residential structures. The ongoing need to install and maintain energy-efficient air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems will also sustain job prospects in the field, as will architectural restorations and the increasing popularity of artistic and decorative sheet metal products. Companies looking to hire sheet metal workers will seek out applicants who have completed apprenticeships and who are trained in equipment programming and possess welding certifications. For candidates with these qualifications there will be opportunities across several industries: construction, plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, roofing, and manufacturing.

What’s the supply of sheet metal workers?

The sheet metal worker industry is concentrated in Texas, California, Florida

Sheet Metal Worker job market by state

State Name Employed Sheet Metal Workers
Texas 9,540
California 8,390
Florida 8,040
New York 6,570
Indiana 4,580
Virginia 4,520
Ohio 4,180
Michigan 4,000
Georgia 3,590
Washington 3,440
Pennsylvania 3,260
Illinois 3,260
Oregon 3,250
Wisconsin 3,180
Arizona 3,060
Minnesota 2,980
Massachusetts 2,890
Oklahoma 2,820
New Jersey 2,790
North Carolina 2,780
Missouri 2,640
Kentucky 2,210
Maryland 1,940
Tennessee 1,850
Utah 1,810
Kansas 1,730
South Carolina 1,710
Colorado 1,660
Iowa 1,650
Connecticut 1,480
Alabama 1,450
Idaho 1,290
Nevada 1,270
Mississippi 1,260
Arkansas 1,230
Louisiana 1,080
Maine 830
New Hampshire 760
New Mexico 640
West Virginia 540
Hawaii 490
Nebraska 440
Delaware 440
Montana 410
Vermont 370
Rhode Island 370
South Dakota 320
North Dakota 290
Alaska 240
Wyoming 160