Embarking on a career as a pipefitter in Ardmore, OK, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships span about four to five years, demanding extensive training under seasoned 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 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Ardmore, OK, earn an average of $716 per week, with an annual overtime average of $3,728. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring pipefitters in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
