Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Rhode Island
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Rhode Island.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Rhode Island
Applicants typically complete a state-registered apprenticeship combining classroom education with paid fabrication and field-installation experience.
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 Rhode Island
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island is approximately $4,250 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Rhode Island
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 Rhode Island
Rhode Island sheet metal workers performing regulated work must register as apprentices and advance through the state licensing system.
- Enter an approved sheet metal apprenticeship and work under a properly licensed professional.
- Complete required classroom instruction and documented paid on-the-job training hours.
- Study fabrication, duct systems, welding, blueprint reading, air distribution, codes, and safety.
- Pass the applicable state examination before working as a licensed journeyperson or master sheet metal worker.
- Obtain EPA Section 608 certification when handling regulated HVAC refrigerants.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Rhode Island
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| New England Institute of Technology – HVAC Technology | East Greenwich | View Program |
| Community College of Rhode Island – HVAC and Workforce Trades | Lincoln | View Program |
| Davies Career and Technical High School – HVAC Technology | Lincoln | 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 Rhode Island
Registered Sheet Metal Apprenticeship
Organization: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
HVAC and Sheet Metal Apprenticeship
Organization: Rhode Island Associated Builders and Contractors
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island regulates sheet metal work through occupational licensing administered by the Department of Labor and Training. Apprentices must register, and regulated installation work requires the applicable journeyperson or master license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Healthcare facilities, universities, marine industries, manufacturing, commercial HVAC work, and retirement-related replacement should sustain demand in Rhode Island.
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 Rhode Island?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Rhode Island is approximately $65,100 per year, or $31.30 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Rhode Island require sheet metal worker licensing?
Yes. Rhode Island requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt sheet metal worker work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2022 to 2032. 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
- Rhode Island Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Rhode Island Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Rhode Island Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Rhode Island Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit — Licensing authority. Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit