Embarking on a career as a pipefitter in Beckley, WV, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships generally span four to five years, involving extensive training under seasoned professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 89,141 pipefitters nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, translating to approximately $1,183 per week. In Beckley, WV, apprentices earn an average of $1,000 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1,200 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild offer pathways to apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a financially rewarding career with strong growth prospects, as the industry projects a 6% job growth from 2023 to 2033.
