Skilled Trades & Technical SciencesColorado

Sheet Metal Work in Colorado

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Colorado's Sheet Metal Work pathway prepares students for careers in sheet metal fabrication, installation, and HVAC ductwork. Colorado's construction and manufacturing sectors create demand for skilled sheet metal workers.

Students develop competency in layout and measurement, cutting techniques, forming and bending, joining methods, and welding basics. They work with sheet metal tools and materials through hands-on training.

Graduates work as sheet metal apprentices with contractors or fabrication shops. Many progress to journeyman status or specialize in HVAC systems. Colorado's construction sector ensures solid employment.

Sheet Metal Work at a Glance

3

Courses

8

Credentials

4

Career Paths

State Standards & Framework

Colorado's sheet metal standards align with industry practices and HVAC standards. Standards cover layout, fabrication, installation, and safety.

Students complete hands-on competency assessments demonstrating proficiency in measurement, cutting, forming, and joining techniques. Assessment includes welding basics and safety certifications.

View Colorado CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

Course
Sheet Metal Fundamentals
Fabrication and Forming Techniques
Installation and Advanced Work

View Colorado course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

Career Opportunities

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.

Sheet Metal Apprentice

Entry Level
$46,970in Colorado
National: $47,290-1%

Salary range: $46,970 - $68,640

-6.1% growth5,100 openings/yr
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Sheet Metal Worker

Experienced
$57,870in Colorado
National: $60,850-5%

Salary range: $46,970 - $68,640

-6.1% growth5,100 openings/yr
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Fabrication Specialist

Experienced
$42,000in Colorado
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Crew Supervisor

Experienced
$130,340in Colorado
National: $102,950+27%

Salary range: $86,660 - $188,290

+0.4% growth4,100 openings/yr
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Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students apprentice with sheet metal contractors, HVAC companies, fabrication shops, and construction firms throughout Colorado.

Career & Technical Student Organization

Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.

How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs

AI-Powered Curriculum

Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months

Colorado Standards Built In

Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks

Teacher Customization

Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment

Ongoing Updates

Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve

Related Pathways in Colorado

Construction Trades

Colorado's Construction Trades pathway prepares students for careers across the diverse construction industry. Colorado's strong construction sector, supported by population growth and infrastructure development, creates robust opportunities. Students develop foundational skills in multiple construction disciplines including carpentry, electrical basics, plumbing fundamentals, and HVAC concepts. They learn through comprehensive hands-on training and partnerships with construction companies. Graduates pursue specialized training in specific trades or work as general construction workers. Many progress to journeyman status or into construction management. Strong demand throughout Colorado ensures excellent career opportunities.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

HVAC - Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Colorado's HVAC pathway prepares students for careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Colorado's varied climate and growing construction create consistent demand for skilled HVAC technicians. Students master system design principles, equipment operation, refrigeration cycles, electrical components, and maintenance procedures. They work with multiple system types and gain hands-on experience through partnerships with HVAC contractors and building systems companies. Graduates work as HVAC technicians or apprentices, progressing to journeyman and master technician status. Many establish their own HVAC service businesses. Colorado's active construction and facility maintenance sectors ensure strong employment throughout the state.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

Welding

Colorado's Welding pathway prepares students for careers in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and fabrication industries where welding skills are essential. Colorado's manufacturing base and construction sector create strong demand for skilled welders. Students master multiple welding processes including MIG, TIG, and stick welding. They learn blueprint reading, metal properties, joint design, quality standards, and inspection through comprehensive hands-on training in modern welding labs. Graduates work as welders, fabricators, or welding technicians with manufacturing companies, construction firms, aerospace contractors, or specialized welding shops. Many advance to supervisory positions. Colorado's diverse industrial base ensures strong employment throughout the state.

Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

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