Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Colorado
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Colorado.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Colorado
Colorado sheet metal apprentices normally complete a four- or five-year paid apprenticeship. Training includes fabrication, welding, HVAC duct systems, architectural sheet metal, plans and specifications, testing and balancing, safety, and mechanical codes.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Colorado
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Colorado median wage for sheet metal worker workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $60,850, the median wage in Colorado is approximately $2,970 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Colorado
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONSheet Metal Worker Training Requirements in Colorado
Colorado sheet metal workers generally complete a registered apprenticeship or structured employer training program. Mechanical and HVAC contractor licensing must be checked locally.
- Complete approximately four to five years of paid on-the-job and classroom instruction.
- Study sheet metal layout, fabrication, welding, HVAC duct installation, architectural metal, plans, codes, and safety.
- Maintain employer-required OSHA, welding, lift, rigging, and equipment certifications.
- Obtain separate state credentials if the work includes regulated plumbing or electrical tasks.
- Check the applicable city or county for mechanical contractor licensing, permits, and inspections.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Colorado
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Emily Griffith Technical College | Denver | View Program |
| Front Range Community College | Westminster | View Program |
| Pikes Peak State College | Colorado Springs | View Program |
| Pickens Technical College | Aurora | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESSheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship Programs in Colorado
Colorado Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Colorado
Colorado does not issue a statewide occupational license for sheet metal workers or a general statewide HVAC contractor license. Mechanical and HVAC contractor licensing is handled primarily by cities and counties. Regulated plumbing, electrical, or refrigeration-related work may require separate state or local credentials.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Colorado
Colorado projects employment to grow from 2,250 sheet metal workers in 2022 to 2,440 in 2032. This represents 8% growth, with approximately 230 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the sheet metal worker salary in Colorado?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Colorado is approximately $57,880 per year, or $27.83 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Colorado require sheet metal worker licensing?
Colorado does not use one uniform statewide licensing rule for all sheet metal worker work. Local requirements may apply, and applicants should verify the rules in the city or county where they plan to work.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in Colorado?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 4–5 Years Apprenticeship, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are sheet metal workers in demand in Colorado?
Colorado projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 8% from 2022 to 2032, with about 230 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Colorado Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Colorado Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies / Local Building Departments — Licensing authority. Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies / Local Building Departments