Sheet Metal Worker
Sheet Metal Workers design, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products, including such things as ducts, pipes, gutters, cabinets, flashings and supporting devices involving heating, air conditioning, roofing, restaurant, and hospital equipment. They read engineering and architectural drawings, sketches and work specifications, then lay out, measure and mark sheet metal according to drawings or templates. They may also develop patterns for sheet metal using Computer-Assisted Design and Drafting (CADD) software.
Sheet Metal Workers operate light metalworking machines such as shears, brakes, punches and drill presses, including Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment to cut, bend, punch, drill, shape or straighten sheet metal, then use welding equipment to join sheets of metal and must have knowledge of the specialized welding techniques used for the many different metal alloys they will encounter. Jobs in this field are frequently tied to the construction sector.
Note: This trade is transitioning to mandatory certification, effective December 1, 2023. Refer to SkilledTradesBC for details.
Sheet Metal Worker is a nationally designated trade under the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program.
Other programs in this sector:
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Recommendations
Sheet Metal Workers have mechanical and mathematical aptitude, good hand-eye coordination, spatial perception and manual dexterity.
Recommended education: English 10, Math 11, Science 10 or equivalent (Grade 12 preferred).
The Apprenticeship Program comprises Levels 1-to-4 of progressive technical training, with each Level taking 8 weeks (240 hours) to complete. In addition, apprentices are required to accumulate 6,240 hours of work-based training.
A Foundation Program can jump-start your career without employer sponsorship by supplying the knowledge and skills to enter directly at Level 2 (refer to SkilledTradesBC for alternative paths into the occupation).