Description of Occupation

The Sheet Metal Industry is one of many construction trades. Along with craftsperson in the electrical, carpentry and plumbing fields, Sheet Metal Workers build homes and large commercial structures. The Sheet Metal Industry is unique however, because it is the only trade that designs, manufactures and installs its own products. Sheet Metal Shop Workers take ordinary pieces of flat metal and make them into specialized products like duct systems and solar panels. These products are usually specially designed for particular construction projects. Members of the trade are proud of its special distinction; it not only builds, it creates.

Qualifications for Training

Personal Characteristics
If you have artistic talents, you will enjoy working with many products which are not only useful but which also have a pleasing appearance. If you like working with your hands, you will use hand tools, operate manufacturing equipment, install and maintain heating, ventilating, air conditioning equipment, as well as install decorative siding and metal roofs. If you have ambitions to become a foreperson, superintendent or contractor you will find a real challenge in the problems of design, material flow, cost control, and labor relations, merchandising and customer relations.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
The Sheet Metal Business is tough, dirty and sometimes dangerous. It requires strength, stamina and the ability to think and act quickly. A good portion of the work occurs out-of-doors and away from the shop area. This calls for initiative and resourcefulness and stimulates the craftsperson to do a first rate job as he/she alone is responsible for the finished product. There are occasionally some unpleasant tasks to perform, but this is true in all occupations. An apprentice meets various situations, such as lifting, pulling, and climbing, all demanding good physical stamina.

Opportunities In The Trade
The constant increase in new types of construction and the development of new materials has created the need for a higher degree of proficiency on the part; of the craftsperson. Any ambitious person wanting to work with his/her hands should first find a high interest factor in the Sheet Metal Industry since our craftsmen are continually designing, building or installing products.

Since the Sheet Metal Industry involves so many different skills, there are a lot of job options within the trade. Another of the Industry's advantages is the opportunity to specialize. Over time Journeyperson usually acquire preferences in different areas of the trade - while one person likes welding, balancing air systems may be preferred by another. If working with tools doesn't continue to challenge you, perhaps a career as an estimator or a draftsman would be more to your liking.