Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Michigan
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Michigan.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Michigan
Most Michigan sheet metal workers enter the trade through a paid apprenticeship lasting approximately four to five years. Training combines supervised jobsite experience with classroom instruction in fabrication, HVAC systems, welding, blueprint reading, mathematics, safety, and building 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 Michigan
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Michigan 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 Michigan is approximately $3,640 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Michigan
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 Michigan
Michigan sheet metal workers commonly complete a registered apprenticeship or an employer-sponsored training program. A high school diploma or equivalent, physical ability to perform construction work, reliable transportation, and basic mathematics skills are normally expected.
- Complete approximately four to five years of paid apprenticeship training.
- Receive supervised experience in layout, fabrication, welding, installation, HVAC duct systems, and equipment service.
- Complete related classroom instruction in mathematics, blueprint reading, OSHA safety, building codes, and digital fabrication.
- Maintain OSHA, welding, lift, or other job-specific certifications required by the employer.
- Obtain a Michigan mechanical contractor license before independently contracting for regulated HVAC or ductwork projects.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Michigan
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Henry Ford College | Dearborn | View Program |
| Grand Rapids Community College | Grand Rapids | View Program |
| Lansing Community College | Lansing | View Program |
| Kirtland Community College | Grayling | 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 Michigan
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Michigan
Michigan does not issue a statewide occupational license to individual sheet metal workers. However, a Michigan mechanical contractor license with an appropriate HVAC Equipment or Ductwork classification is required when a person or business independently contracts for regulated mechanical work. Local permits and inspections may also apply.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Michigan
Michigan projects employment of sheet metal workers to decline slightly from 4,210 in 2022 to 4,130 in 2032. Approximately 370 openings are expected annually, primarily because experienced workers leave the occupation or retire.
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 Michigan?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Michigan is approximately $64,490 per year, or $31.00 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Michigan require sheet metal worker licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for sheet metal worker workers in Michigan. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan projects sheet metal worker employment to decline by approximately 2% from 2022 to 2032, with about 370 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
- Michigan Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Michigan Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Bureau of Construction Codes — Licensing authority. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Bureau of Construction Codes