Sheet Metal Worker

Fabricate, install and repair ductwork, roofing components and metal assemblies used in HVAC, buildings and industrial applications. Work blends shop fabrication and field installation.

What You Do Day-to-Day

Lay out and cut metal, form ducts and flashings, assemble fittings, install duct systems, and seal and insulate joints per specifications.

Work Environment

Shop fabrication and construction sites including rooftops and mechanical rooms. Work varies between indoor shop precision and outdoor installations.

Physical Demands

Cutting, bending and lifting sheet metal, working at heights on roofs, and handling awkward large pieces — requires good spatial awareness and physical endurance.

Tools and Equipment

Shears, brake presses, hand seaming tools, power drills, rivet guns, ductwork tools, welding gear for certain assemblies and PPE.

Who This Trade Fits

Good fit for people who like both fabrication and fieldwork, enjoy working with metal shapes and taking precise measurements to tight tolerances.

Training Path in Canada

Typically a 3–4 year apprenticeship with school blocks; Red Seal designation available in many provinces for interprovincial mobility.

What First Year Can Look Like

Learn basic shop layout, cutting and forming, simple duct assembly, safe rooftop practices and attend initial in-school modules.

Common Entry Routes

Employer apprenticeships, union entry, or trades college programs in sheet metal fabrication and HVAC support.

Why Choose This Trade

Versatile trade with shop and field roles, steady demand in construction and retrofit projects, and opportunities into HVAC, architectural or industrial metalwork.

Things to Think About

Physical work with cuts and sharp edges, rooftop safety risks, and variable weather exposure on installations.

Explore More Trades

Not sure this is the right fit? Take the quiz or browse other trade pages.

Take the Quiz

Training Programs

Explore schools and training programs that support entry into the trades.

Explore Schools

Marketplace

Explore Canadian gear, tools, and practical products for people getting started in the trades.

Visit Marketplace