Construction · SOC 47-2211
Sheet metal work blends design, fabrication, and field installation — AI can assist layout planning, but cutting and fitting stays hands-on.
Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
Timeline: CNC fabrication is already automating flat-panel cutting in shops, but field installation of ductwork in active buildings remains a skilled human task through the 2030s.
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$50,970 median pay
$51,860 median pay
$76,640 median pay
$47,460 median pay
$48,400 median pay
$73,340 median pay
AI job-risk card
Sheet Metal Workers is resilient on AIFear. Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Sheet Metal Workers is 16/100 (Resilient). Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
16 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Laying out and marking cutting dimensions using calculations, Estimating material requirements from project specs. Harder to automate: Fabricating and joining duct sections with welding, rivets, and solder, Installing duct assemblies in building framing and ceiling cavities, Making on-site modifications when installation conflicts arise, Transporting and positioning prefabricated assemblies.
Lean into HVAC duct design and layout, CNC plasma and laser cutting operation, Blueprint and mechanical plan reading, Welding and metal joining techniques. Consider roles such as HVAC systems designer or Sheet metal shop supervisor or Mechanical construction project manager.
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.