Becoming a pipefitter typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the pipefitting trade last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 89,141 pipefitters nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, and projects a 6% job growth from 2023 to 2033. In Anderson, SC, pipefitters earn an average weekly wage of approximately $988, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1036 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring pipefitters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
