There are currently an estimated 138,900 sheet metal workers in the United States. The sheet metal worker job market is expected to grow by 8.6% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are sheet metal workers?

CareerExplorer rates sheet metal workers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 18,900 sheet metal workers. That number is based on 12,000 additional sheet metal workers, and the retirement of 6,900 existing 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 California, Texas, New York

Sheet Metal Worker job market by state

State Name Employed Sheet Metal Workers
California 11,680
Texas 11,010
New York 8,080
Florida 7,910
Ohio 4,590
Illinois 4,450
Massachusetts 4,380
Georgia 4,370
Washington 4,340
Wisconsin 4,110
Indiana 3,980
Missouri 3,880
Virginia 3,710
Pennsylvania 3,620
Arizona 3,390
North Carolina 3,350
Colorado 3,290
Michigan 3,210
Oklahoma 3,210
Maryland 2,880
Minnesota 2,760
Tennessee 2,630
Oregon 2,530
New Jersey 2,160
South Carolina 1,980
Kansas 1,760
Utah 1,680
Iowa 1,620
Arkansas 1,430
Mississippi 1,410
Kentucky 1,300
Connecticut 1,240
Nevada 1,190
Alabama 1,090
Louisiana 960
Hawaii 750
Maine 740
New Mexico 710
Nebraska 630
West Virginia 610
Delaware 550
Montana 520
Rhode Island 500
New Hampshire 500
Alaska 470
North Dakota 470
South Dakota 400
Vermont 310
Idaho 280
Guam 180
District of Columbia 150
Wyoming 150
Puerto Rico 130